Welcome to Gaia! ::

Rescued

After the dream he'd had that starred one of his two best friends Luthor had left the safety of the shelter and found himself standing at the end of the walkway looking left then right then left again then right again... and he sighed. It all looked the same didn't it? A lot of pavements, lots of tall buildings, lots of people... and he had no idea which way would lead him back to the Labs though he wasn't quite sure that he wanted so much to go back there as he wanted to find Pepper, the real Pepper and not a dreamed up version of him. He spent a good five minutes debating on which direction he wanted to walk before picking in an arbitrary manner and turned to the left and started on his way again. He had a bad feeling he wasn't going to find the shelter again so he knew that the best way to go about this was to walk slowly, try to find landmarks that would help in his journey back, and he mentally berrated himself for not doing the same thing when he left the Labs. Then again that day he wasn't really in a state where he would be able to easily make such choices.

He hadn't been traveling all that far or all that long before the dark clouds that had been hovering over head seemed to grow darker and darker but instead of heading back he kept going. He felt as though he might be going in the right direction so he didn't see a reason for why he should go back now, not when he was on a trail... and then the rains started to fall. He couldn't help but give a little, grumbling curse as in no time he was soaked to the skin and his once pretty hair was plastered down around him. He gave a glare at nobody in particular and a soft, sighing sound. The only thing that could be said for the rain that was good was that it was cold and the cold rain seemed to make his back feel better even if the rest of him felt bad. He could only hope that he didn't end up with a cold he thought to himself as he rounded a corner.

As if to add insult to injury... or perhaps more injury to injury a woman with an umbrella who seemed to be in so much of a hurry that one lost brat seemed more in the way then anything else crashed into him and just kept going. As she left Luthor's eyes seemed to roll up into his head for a moment as he collapsed to his hands and knees, gulping for a breath as pain started to radiate from where he'd been hit by her... and then the muscles in his back started to spasm something fierce. Given the weather and the lack of people really caring about those they didn't know most just moved around Luthor or stepped over him on their way to their destinations.

Sokan loved rainy days as he could forget his worries and just wander the city without people staring at him because of how he look. He even more looked like a tentacle monster as the water released his water-breathing 'tentacles' from his back fins and gave him a slight glow of white from his back and he didn't care with one set of his eyes closed. Not really looking to were he was going as the rain made him very forgetful as it reminds him of home that he want to return too but couldn't. He entered part of the city that he normal wouldn't enter alone as it was too near for him to the labs even tho it was some ways off. Slithering on he watched a woman walking very fast to get out of the rain, he thought it was a shame she wasn't enjoying it. As slowing down would so distress and make her life a lot more happier. Glancing down the street the way the woman just came and just out of the corner of his eye he thought he might spot someone he knew. Turning his head with both sets of eyes now open and saw Ciaran's friend Luthor in pain, down on the ground and others not caring. Slithering fast as he could and flaring up all his fins and hissing at the people to get out of his way as he made his way to Luthor. "Are you ok," he asked as he got to Luthor with a very concerned look on Sokan face and other people making sure to go wide around them as Sokan's tail was twitching as he was aggravated and wondered to why he was out alone, but was going to wait to ask that question as soon as he knew Luthor was ok.

Luthor lifted his head when he heard a hissing sound, not sure what the sound was or who it belonged too, half thinking that it might be some sort of animal... then he found himself gazing up at someone he knew. He blinked his eyes a couple of times before he found himself looking around as though he thought Ciaran might be present. Given the rain though he wasn't surprised when he didn't spot the other spawn. He lowered his gaze and nodded, "I... I will be alright..." He murmured, wrapping on arm around his middle so his nails could dig into his back through his shirt before he tried to regain his footing. He didn't mean to worry people, especially someone that had been rather nice to him when they'd first met.

Eying Luthor from head to toe, Sokan could see that he didn't look all that way. His top set of eyes narrowed as he saw Luthor in pain and knew that Ciaran wouldn't want to see his friend like this. "You don't look to be alright," he said as he made up his mind to take Luthor with him. He might not know what happened but he did know that it wasn't very good. "I might not know what happened to you but from what I can see you don't look so good and I don't care if you protest but your coming with me. Anyways Ciaran will be happy to see you despite on how things are." he said as Sokan got closer and being much bigger than the pre-teen and picked him up in his arms not caring if he struggled, puffed out a little to make sure other people wouldn't get in his way as he slithered towards home.

Luthor was a little more then shocked as he was swept up into the arms of the snake being and instead of giving any protest he seemed instead to lean against him, hiding his face. It was less due to embarrassment and more due to the fact that he'd been rather hands off since he'd run away, especially when he wasn't feeling well. The last thing he wanted was to be question to highly or sent to a hospital to be tested on. This was nice though, this man was going to bring him to his friend... he relaxed a little bit and despite the pain and the rain he was feeling... happy and kind of light inside.

Once Sokan had Luthor in his arms and felt that the pre-teen was cold and hot at the same time and he knew that might not be a good thing. So he wanted to get home as fast as he could and get his charge warm and happy. A slightly different 'tentacle' came around from Sokan's back that was almost the same color of his fins but slightly lighter in color was glowing giving some healing warmth to Luthor as Sokan hurried to get home. Slithering faster as he saw the small house and opened the door quickly to get Luthor out of the rain. "Ciaran could you put several towels in the dryer to get as quickly as you can," he said yelling to make sure Ciaran heard him. "There are a few in there right now, but I could put a few more in there for you," he called back as he ran downstairs with a pattering of feet. A few second later he came to the door with two large warm towels in his hands to see that it was Luthor that need the warm towels and not Sokan as he thought it was weard that he himself would need them. "Its good to see you, Luthor," he said as he opened the towels together in his arms as Sokan put Luthor down. Ciaran came up and gave Luthor a big hug with the towels to make him warm and dry, with his tail waging a mile a minute.

The brightly colored eyes of the young spawn opened up as he felt the warmth the tentacle was giving off and he found himself starring at it a bit, glad to see that it was friendly. He'd seen stuff like that before on other spawn that had Lust Blood in them only they didn't offer warmth like this one did. He gave a little smile a he lifted his hand up and brushed the tips of his fingers over the small limb. It wasn't long before they were heading inside out of the rain and he was never happier then that, he didn't much like the rain he'd decided after being caught out in it twice thus far since running away from home.

He turned his head quickly to look around for his friend when he heard Sokan call out for Ciaran go get towels and his eyes got first wide then a little watery when he saw the other spawn. He was so glad to see one of his friends in this manner instead of just in a dream. He smiled when he came over with the towels to wrap them around him along with a hug. It felt good but it also caused him to wince in pain as Ciaran's hands moved over the strange, aching lumps on his back. His eyes fluttered closed before he lowered his head, "I... it is good to... see you, Ciaran..." He murmured, trying to push the pain aside so as not to worry the other boy.

Ciaran was happy as all could with his friend and started to purr. Sokan shut the door and moved to a spot near the door were he laid to have the water on his skin dry naturally. "Ciaran it might be a good idea to get Luthor in the warm bath up stairs," he said as he laid down. "If you need anything just holler," he added. "Ok, I will if I need to," he answered has he lead Luthor up to the stairs and up to the second floor. Once up there Ciaran when to the right and down the hall towards his room. It was a large room with with a bed in the center and not too much more as Ciaran was still decorating his room. Taking Luthor into his walk-in closet and to the door inside that led to a wooden Japanese bathhouse style bathroom with a large tile tub taking up the middle of the bathroom with a wall separating two halves the bath with another opening to another side of the bathroom that was the bathroom for the room on the other side of hall, as both rooms shared this very large bathroom. "Come on lets get you out of those wet clothing and get you warm," Ciaran said to his friend as he rummage through the linen closet for a small towel Luthor could cover himself up when he took of his clothing. "Wrap this around you once you have your clothing off and hop into the bath, its not too hot," he said handing the towel to him. "I'm going to leave for a second for you to get undressed and get you something to eat," he added.

Luthor followed along after his friend, eyes widening when they went into the large ad strangely laid out bathroom, it was like nothing he'd ever seen before but the idea of getting to use it was rather exciting... it had been to long since he'd gotten more then a quick shower when he could get in at the shelter so this was like a gift from above... or at least as close to one as a half demon could get, 'I can... really use your tub? Wow..." He murmured before he took the towel that was held out to him. He looked it over before nodding and set to shrugging out of what he was wearing and set it aside after the other headed out. He folded his clothing up and set it down before he wrapped the towel around his waste and tucked it into place. When he had himself arranged he moved forward to inspect the bathroom while waiting for Ciaran's return.

The way he was wearing the towel it was a bit like a simple, terrycloth skirt which left his back bare to the view of anyone that might happen to see it. It was a strange sight to behold, that he had strange but simple bone structures under his skin and muscles of his back. Ones that seemed to be shifting and slowly working their way toward the surface. It was cause of the spasms that he was having, the bones working their way free of his flesh... a painful experience for him but he was doing his best to ignore the pain.

Once down stairs he looked to see if the front door was locked and it was with Sokan a sleep by the door as he was reabsorbing the water on his skin and the the tentacles retracting as they started to dry out. Leaving him be and went to the kitchen to find a tray with some warm food for two and something to drink as well. Ciaran spotting a note from Sokan stating that on the tray was food for the both of them as well as some pain killer for Luthor if he wanted to take it as it was good there was some as Ciaran would have done so even if Sokan hadn't as he knew his friend was in pain despite trying not to show it. He also added some Icy hot to the tray as well and some ice packs as well if needed.

Coming back into the bathroom with his tray as he was kicking a stool as well, with one last kick near the bathtub Ciaran set the tray down on it. "Here is some food if you want to eat as there is some pain killer if you want take it and yes you can use the bath. I don't mind, you need it more than I do." Ciaran said smiling as he sat down on the edge of the bath.

Luthor starred at all of the stuff that Ciaran had brought in with him and then looked over at the bath then back again. Food, painkillers for his back, and a bath? Faced with the choice he really wasn't sure what he wanted first so he ended up sort of moving back and forth between the tray and the tub a moment before pausing in place. He stood there for a moment to shake his head to clear it before he he finally decided on the tub. The other stuff could wait he thought but getting clean would be like a dream come true. Having spent perhaps far to much time with Pepper who hadn't believed in pants for the first part of his young life, had him removing his towel, folding it up, and setting it aside before he got into the tub. Walking around sans clothing meant very little to him. He sat down in the water first before he sank under it completely. He floated just under the surface, enjoying the feeling of warmth wrapping all the way around him. He stayed under for as long as he was able to do so before he pushed his head up out of the water for a breath, his long white hair falling down farther then was normal when it was wet due to the water winning against the waves in his hair for at least the moment.

Just smiling bigger as Luthor couldn't make up his mind on what he wanted. But once Luthor took of his towel, Ciaran blushed brightly with his tail feathers spread in shock and turned around giving Luthor some privacy to what he thought. Getting up from the tub edge to a small closet and took out a small tray with a cup holder that was destined to float in the bath. Setting the food on the tray and a drink in the holder and set it to float towards Luthor. "Here you go," he said indicating to the tray of food floating his way and he also reached over to hand Luthor the pain killer for him to take.

Luthor was, before running away from home, a bit on the spoiled side. It was because of this that he was rather delighted by Ciaran's help, he wasn't exactly the best when it came to taking care of himself and his friend was helping him in that aspect. To bring him food, stuff to help him with his pain, and even allowing him to use the bath here, "Thank you." He murmured, taking the pain killers before he washed them down with the drink that was on the floating tray in front of him. It didn't take long for a combination of the medicine and the hot water to ease the pain in his back almost nonexistent level which had him relaxing greatly.

"Your welcome," he said with a purr as it had been sometime since he had seen his friend. But deep down he knew there was something else was troubling his friend beside the pain in his back. Taking a drink from his cup as he thought on why Luthor was wandering in the rain, he knew that his friend needed him was a feeling he was having. There weren't many of the other spawn that he felt close with and would do anything to keep Luthor happy as it would make him happy. "Well if you need a place to stay, you can stay here if you want," he said to Luthor as he was slightly blushing as he didn't know if Luthor need a place to stay or not, but it didn't hurt to ask.

"This place... it is a lot nicer then where I have been staying." He murmured, thinking about the over crowded shelter he'd taken up residence in after running away from home before he set to eating the food in front of him, "I was... thinking about going home but I really don't even know where that is." He admitted, he saw Ciaran as one of his two best friends so he didn't see why he couldn't admit to him that he was quite lost and had absolutely no sense of direction. It wasn't as though he thought his friend would mock him for it.

He glanced over at the feathered boy before smiling, "If I could stay for a little while? At least until the rains stop then I can go back to trying to figure out where I am supposed to be going." He had told Pepper he would go home, wanted to see his friend again in person but found himself comfortable here. Maybe staying for a little while while he built up his courage would be okay? He chewed on his lower lip in a thoughtful manner as he debated over it.

Ciaran didn't want to pry on what was plaguing his friend, but knew he would tell him when he wanted to, so Ciaran was just going to wait and comfort his friend. " You can stay as long as you want. Through the brake in the bath wall leads to another bathroom just like this and another room like mine, with a bed and everything." he said and he was never going to mock his friend about getting lost. His own first couple of outing by himself he had gotten lost and only his brother finding him did he get back to his other place of living. "Once your ready to go home, I can take you there if you want me to." he said smiling as it was nice that Luthor was staying close in which made him very happy about even if it was for a little time.

Luthor glanced over toward the other room that Ciaran spoke up and he tilted his head to the side, "Mmm, never slept alone before." He said in a thoughtful manner, "When I was at the Labs Pepper and I shared the bed and at the shelter there were others in the same room as me." He wasn't sure what he thought about having a room to himself. It was a novel idea but at the same time sounded a bit lonely. He finished up his food before he moved over to where Ciaran and his towel were both located.

"I... would like that, an escort back home. Once I am feel up to it... I get the feeling I will be in a lot of trouble when I go back... I've... been away from home for a while now." He said in a near whispering tone, as though it were a secret that he wanted for only Ciaran to know about. It had been a couple months now that he'd stayed at the shelter and he was glad to be here with his friend and even the prospect of going home to where he would surely be punished were both better then staying among strangers.

"Its not to bad, but then I have been sleeping by myself ever since I was young. But if you don't like sleeping by yourself my own bed is big enough for two or I could set up a cot in my room for you. Wondering how its was like to sleep with another in the same room was a very different concept for Ciaran to fathom but something that he wouldn't object to.

"I can do that." he answered. "I can also stay with you as well," he added not really knowing what type of trouble his friend could be in. "Also the door is always open here for you to stay as long as you want and when ever you need to," he said as in Ciaran's mind right now Luthor was the only one that he would extent that offer.

Luthor seemed to perk up a little, "Really? That would be nice." He murmured, it was still strange to him no matter where he slept not to have Pepper either nearby, with him, or under the bed... the idea that Pepper was still sleeping there despite his not being home made him miss his strange friend a little. He gave a smile as he lifted the tray out of the water to set it on the edge of the tub before he allowed himself to sink back under a moment and ran his finger through his hair to rinse it out a second time before he stood up and set to squeezing out his air before he climbed out of the tub and scooped up his towel and set to drying off.

"Yep, you are always welcome here," he said. He turned to give Luthor his privacy when he was drying off and got another towel for his hair. "Here is another towel for your hair," he said and handed the towel to Luthor. "So do you have any preference to what color your clothing is?" Ciaran ask as he picked up Luthor's old clothing and then sent them down a shoot to get washed.

He wrapped the first towel around himself like a skirt before taking the second one, carefully wrapping his hair with it but made sure that his horn didn't chance to pierce the cloth as he didn't want to ruin anything when Ciaran was being so kind as to let him borrow it, "Any color is fine, thank you." He murmured, moving to follow along after his friend much like a small duck would follow along after its mother. He'd spent to much time with people he didn't know or alone that now he just wanted to stick close to his friend even if he were going to end up a bit underfoot.

He just nodded to the answer as he turned and walked back to the closet with Luthor not all that far behind. In which Ciaran didn't mind. He loved his friend being here, it would be lots of fun while he stayed here.

Once in the closet it was very large but it was half empty but at least a good selection of clothing. Ciaran looked Luthor over and decided that he would fit most of the clothing that he had. "Well I mostly have pants," he said as he showed Luthor what he had. "I have a few shirts, right behind you and chose what you want and a some other outfits as well," he added as he moved over to let Luthor chose what he wanted.

Luthor looked the clothing over before he reached out to run his hands over the cloth of the pants, some of the material was rather soft and he gave a smile of a smile as he drew out a pair to look them over, "These should work." He said, rather liking the color of blue that they were. He looked over his shoulder for a moment as though he were trying to look at the part of his back that caused the ache, the strange bone structures under the skin there, "Wonder if I'd be best without a shirt." He mused, he wouldn't have the cloth rubbing against his back then.

"Well its up to you, but it might be best," he said as he looked at Luthor's back and felt bad for Luthor to be in pain. "Well I do have some rub that soothes pain and it feels good for aches as well." Ciaran added as it was one of the things Sokan did add to the tray but he left it in the room.

"Oh? Do you mind putting some of that one my back?" He asked, wondering if his friend would mind doing that since he couldn't reach his own back. As he asked he set to pulling on the pants that he'd been allowed to borrow before he removed his towel skirt and set to folding it up, "Is there a laundry basket? Or somewhere to put the towel I used?"

"Nope, I don't mind at all." he answered and smiled as he looked over some of the other clothing and knew that soon he would have to get winter clothing even tho he hating anything that covered up his arm and chest. But knew to stay warm he would need them and thought to get some winter things for Luthor too, but from his guess it would have to be sometime after his wings came in. "I will take it and if you go lay on the bed with your back up as its easier that way why I go put his down the laundry shoot that is in the bathroom. Also you can take as many baths as you want while you are here too," he said as he took the towel to the bathroom and then out to the bedroom.

Luthor gave a nod of his head, walking over toward the bed while he set to work rubbing his hair dry or at least try enough that it wouldn't drip all over the place. He look around Ciaran's room as he made his way to the bed and laid the second down down so it would be under his hair since it was still a bit damp. It was a trick that his Daddy had shown him... he paused for a moment in place before he shook his head and started forward again. Surely but now he was so mad at him... he wouldn't be happy at all when he returned home since he'd run away without a word and never went back.

He gathered his hair into his hands and set to braiding it quickly so that it wouldn't be in the way and laid down on the bed as Ciaran had instructed him to do. The white haired spawn crossed his arms on the bed and rested his head on them, letting his eyes close as he felt himself relaxing. This place was so much nicer, felt so much safer then even the safe house had. No doubt because he was with a friend instead of with strangers.

After getting the towel into its place and he also wiped up the little water on the floor of the bathroom and when into the bedroom. He picked up the the icy melt off a near by table and he had also washed his hands just to be on the safe side. Getting to Luthor's side he squirted a large glob on Luthor's back and started to rub it in gently to sooth his pains way.

Back Pain
Ciaran sat by the window in his room as earlier in the day it had been a nice day and he wanted to go lay out in the sun on his deck. But now it look as it was threating to rain and he wasn't all that happy about it. With winter fast approching he wanted to enjoy all the warm days he could. So walking past a bookcase and took a book of the shelf and layed on the bed to read it. He wondered to were Luthor was but Ciaran did know that he wasn't all that far as he love the company of his best friend, but he did have his idea to where he might be.

Luthor was in what had become his favorite place to be which was the tub, soaking under the hot water. It normally helped at least enough with his pain that it became little more then a dull ache but tonight wasn't the same. In fact it seemed to be worse... he came to the surface before he moved over to the edge of the tub to drag himself out. He leaned his head forward, one hand reached back to clutch at his back then gave a hiss of pain as the tips of his fingers brushed over some sort of swollen... bump? He gave a shiver before he looked back and forth, the pain was more then what he was used to, more then he thought he could deal with.

He reached over to grab up his towel, wrapping it around his waist before he dripped his way across the bathroom to peek into the bedroom that he'd been sharing with his friend to see if he was there before he slowly went in search of him. Maybe he could rub more of that stuff onto his back? It had been a strange, tingling sensation that went around with the salve but it had been nice last time.

The book that he had picked up was boring and wasn't all that happy with it and just very frustrated and chucked the book hard on the ground to get some of his frustration out. Well some of his frustration had been that it could possible rain, but for the fact he was still having trouble telling his best friend for how thankful he was. Sitting up in the bed he saw Luthor come out of the bathroom and he had been right that he had been in the bathtub. "So do you want me to rub some of that icy hot on your back?" he asked as he reached around to the nightstand to were it currently was.

Luthor blinked a couple times before he smiled, "You... read my mind." He murmured, walking over toward Ciaran, not realizing for the moment that he was sort of... swaying as he walked. He crawled up onto the bed and flopped down next to his friend, "I'm... sorry... I'm getting everything... kind of wet." He murmured, feeling bad for that but didn't think that he could get up and dry himself off quite yet. Instead he reached a hand up to pet his hand over the feathers on his friend's tail.

Ciaran had to giggle and smiled. "Well the last time you enjoyed the stuff and it works very well after a bath." he answered his friend still smileing and purred slightly. Watching Luthor walk over to the bed swaying got Ciaran a little concerned and thought something might be wrong. "Its ok everything dries and its all washable too. So don't worry," he answered as he ruffled Luthor's hair. Sensing that his friend was petting his tail he moved to were it was much easier to pet and for him to rub the stuff in. Looking at his back and saw that it didn't look the same as it had earlier. Ciaran didn't want to touch the swollen bumps on his back as they looked very painful. "Your back looks a little more swollen, but I'm going to try to put a little on first," he said as he squirted a little of the gel on his hand and gently started to put it on one of the swollen lumps.

Luthor's eyes went wide and he gave a gasping sound, his body went tense, and his eyes squeezed shut as his friend set to rubbing the stuff onto one of the lumps. He felt... a little dizzy and a bit ill as the pain radiated from the bump. He turned his head to bury his face against the blankets and his hand stilled over Ciaran's tail where he'd been petting it. He didn't want his friend to know that he was hurting him so he didn't say anything, just remained as quiet as he could in hopes that the icy hot would help to dull the pain.

Hearing a little gasp and for the fact that he felt Luthor's body tense up. Ciaran stopped rubbing the ice hot in as a few of his feathers of his shoulders fluffed up. Once he had touched one of the lumps it was very, very warm to the touch sorta like a fever. Ciaran's tail wrapped around Luthor's wrist as he moved over to have Luthor look at him. "If I hurt you. You should have said something, Luthor. As I don't think the icy hot is going to work as the lumps on your back are very warm to the touch. I just might have to get some painkiller for you and some ice to cool them down."

"I didn't want... you to think you were hurting me... its not you my back is just hurting." He murmured, not having wanted to worry the other but it would seem as though that was just what he was doing... His eyes got a bit wide at his friends next words. The idea that the miracle salve wasn't going to help scared Luthor a little bit. He lifted his head a to look up at him for a long moment and then then lowered his head again, "No... no... I should be alright, just... don't go Ciaran." He murmured, he was hurting and he didn't want to be left alone with the pain even if it were for his own good.

"Still you need to tell me, I don't want to make it worse just to rub this stuff in to make it feel better. I would never hurt you and tell me that I hurt you unintentionally won't make me mad, I just wouldn't want to repeat it," he said gently and calm. He was just going to get up when Luthor's words stopped him. "I won't go anywhere," he cooed and moved closer to Luthor. "I would never leave you, you mean so much to me," he said finally with a little blush. "But I do think that its a lot worse that you think. I will call up Sokan to bring some stuff up and could you try to put these on." he said as he brought out a pair of soft flannel pants that were hiding under the pillow. "I think these would be a little more comfortable than staying wrapped in a towel." he said handing over the pants. Turning his head towards the door he yelled down to Sokan and he replied that he was coming up.

He swore under his breath as he heard Ciaran call down to him to bring some strong painkiller. He closed his main eyes and concentrated on his upper set to see what was happening and saw. He swore once more as he hurried to get what he need from downstairs as he knew what was happening.

"Try to..." He gave a nod of his head as he reached over to take the pants that Ciaran gotten out for him. It took all of his concentration to slowly sit up and he gave a groan as he tried to pull the pants on. It took more time then he would like as well as a few attempts before he was flopping down onto his side, panting a bit, "I did it!" He said in a cheerfully dazed manner. He looked over at his friend, glad to see that he had told the truth and wasn't leaving him... he didn't want to be left alone, he always hated that feeling.

"Your a good friend, Ciaran... staying with me like this." He murmured, letting his eyes sink half closed as he watched him closely... then gave a little groan and wrapped an arm around himself as the lumps on his back seemed for a moment to spasm a bit in a painful manner.


He smiled and nodded, he didn't want to cause anyone pain, if he could he would take his frend's pain were he wouldn't have to suffer. Ciaran watch very intently as Luthor with all he had put the pants on. "That's good," he replied as started to play with Luthor's hair. Ciaran also hated being alone and forgotten but those feelings were hidden deep within him not to let others worry about him. "I will do anything for you, Luthor," he replied purred as he tried to comfort his friend through all the pain he was having.

Lucky enough Sokan showed up with his medical bag in on had and a bowl with a bag of ice inside of it and slithered over to see that Luthor wings hadn't quite came in yet but he knew it would be very soon. "It ok Luthor the pain your having right now is your wings coming in, but I brought some ice to cool them down and some stuff for the pain," he said moving closer to the bed.

Luthor looked up at Ciaran, smiling at him before he moved a hand to lace his fingers with those of his friend, holding onto it. He turned his attention to Sokan as the snake man arrived. He blinked a couple times and looked a bit confused, "H-Huh...? Wings?" He murmured, sounding a little confused. Was that what was going on? He tried to lift up to look over his shoulder at the reddened bumps on his back, starring at them oddly. He was getting... wings? He felt them spasm again he gave another groan, "Ahh... thank you, Sokan. Its really nice of you... to bring me that stuff." He murmured.

Ciaran just purred some more as Luthor laced his fingers with his. Staying quiet to what Sokan had said. So his friend was going to get wings, he smiled some more as he thought that was cool and wasn't at all upset that Luthor was getting some. He would just have fun petting them as he wounder to what color they might be.

"Yep. All the pain your having is the wings are trying to brake out from under your skin, but once they break the skin its all over very quick. But its going to be more painful than what your experiencing now. So I'm going to give you some very strong pain killer as I don't want you to get anymore hurt than you will be." he said as he looked over Luthor to try and judge how much Luthor's weight. Taking out a wrapped syringe-needle and a bottle of painkiller and put a small dose within the needle. "Now this will hurt when I stick you as it will numb your back for a bit before it completely knocks you out and tell me when your ready for it,"

Luthor nodded his head as he listened to the explanation of what he was going to go through and what Sokan was planning to do to battle that. His eyes went wide as he saw the needle that he withdrew and filled with some sort of mystery drug. He gave a little tremble and his hand tightened on that of Ciaran as though to make sure that his friend was going to stay right there with him. He didn't like the idea of going unconscious but he trusted these two, it would be alright he told himself over and over in his head.

"I... I guess I am... ready." He said even though he didn't quite feel like he was. The sooner the better though, the needle would help the pain in his back and it would help him to rest and deal with what he was about to experience.

Feeling that his friend was tightening his grip and Ciaran move closer and petted his friends hair with his other hand. "It will be ok and I promise that I won't go anywhere and I will be here when you wake up." Ciaran said to further comfort his friend.

Sokan nodded as he stuck the needle near one of the bumps and it was quickly over and the soothing drug spreading fast. "Don't worry! Once you wake up you will have beautiful wings. You might be sore for a few days but it will be noting after this." he said smiling as he put some of the ice on the lumps too as to help spreed the drug to help with the pain.

"Thank you, Ciaran." he murmured, relaxing a little as he felt his friend's closeness as well as the gentle feeling of the hand petting through his hair. He gave a soft smile at his words and snuggled as close to him as he could... then he gave a little whimper as he felt the bite of the needle in his back. His hold on his friend tightened a bit more before the drug started to spread. The feeling that came with it was strange, it was warm and it made him feel a little like he was floating... his grasp on his friend's hand eased and he barely felt the cold of the ice as he rested on his back, "D-Don't forget... that you said you would be here... ok." He said in a whisper, having a bit of a hard time in concentrating and forming words at the moment. So long as Ciaran didn't forget and that Sokan was right about his only being sore instead of hurting as much as he was before the drug he was sure things would be better as he woke.

As he started to doze off his mind was on Pepper, wondering for an idle moment on the chances that his other friend would be asleep right now, "Wish... he would be..." He murmured to himself, the sound barely audible.

"Your welcome," he murmured and purred. As he snuggled his friend as Sokan had poked Luthor with the needle. He kept running his hand though his friend's hair. "I won't forget and I will be here. So don't worry," he replied.

"We will take good care of you and everything will be fine," Sokan added.

Shared Dreams: Part Two

"eh...I was trying for a forest...green on all sides and brown on the bottom...is kinda a failure.."

Luthor gave a sound of surprise as he found himself swept up into a hug against Pepper's form, he blinked a couple of times before he slid his arms around Pepper and hugged him close, "Mmm, I miss you too Pepper, your who really makes me want to come home." He told his friend, he looked back and forth before giving a little laugh, "Mmm... well it isn't quite a forest but you have to admit its better then the white that this entire place consists of.

Pepper nodded his head, his hair draping in his eyes acting like a curtain so it was hard to read his expression. Leaning in he went back to nibbling on his best friend unable to stop himself. He missed him so much...he just ...wanted nothing more than for this to be real.

"...so...explain again..how I ended up here?"

He gave a little chuckle as he was chewed on, so used to the Pepper versions of affection that he didn't try to escape. At the question though he felt himself flushing again, "I'm... sorry, I didn't exactly think before I spoke." He whispered, "I... forgot about the power of mine... and I umm... said that I wished that you were asleep too." He muttered, feeling a bit embarrassed to admit that he'd done something as foolish as accidentally using his power for that. He would have to apologize to the magic later.

Pepper looked to Luthor after a moment his eyes blinking slowly.
"If...your could of made wishes for yourself...can't you just wish yourself home?" He inquired a bit...curious..and irked again.

"Umm... I... don't know... I don't want to abuse the power though but... maybe I could use it to try to find home." He murmured, as though he'd never thought of that. He hadn't used his magic in so long, always worried that if he used it in a bad way he would end up to much like Vampy and that was the last thing he wanted. He looked up at his friend, "I... can try, see if it works after I wake up."

Pepper nodded his head a bit solemnly and leaned his head against Luthor wishing this was real. He could probably rip out Luthor's throat and he'd be fine....he felt his body stiffen as the idea flitted across his mind. He quickly pushed himself away from Luthor appalled he had just thought such a thing.. Where the hell had that come from? He turned to look away his face looking worried and uneasy.

"Yeah...try at least. I mean it is your magic and Vampy can't stop you from using it where you are now right?"

He tried to wrap his arms around Pepper when his friend leaned into him before he suddenly pulled away as quickly as he'd snuggled close, "Ahh... that is true, the power is a part of me so I could try it." And without Vampy here he didn't have to worry at all about the guy trying to stop him from doing so. He gave a bit of a grin, "That is a good idea... you alright? You look a little like you tasted something bad."

He rubbed his face and then nodded his head, "Yeah...just tired. I am not use to trying to manipulate so much of a dream before...plus Vampy was having me do these stupid spells before you yanked me away...I hope the room exploded and took him with it..." he grumbled un-happily.

Luthor winced, "I'm sorry that he's bothering you so much." He murmured, then gave a chuckle, "Wouldn't that be nice..." He'd seen the guy survive a room blowing up around him though with only some minor wounds... so he doubted that he would be killed by the spell of a beginner which was a shame.

"Maybe when I get home we can do something, just us without any parents underfoot."

Pepper gave him a raised eyebrow, he beat back the thought of his earlier...appalling mental image and then gave a small wavering smile. "Oh? what exactly would we be doing?" he asked curious despite himself. THe room was still a shade of green though it slowly seemed to be solidifying into something that looked more like bushes.

Luthor shrugged, "Don't know, we used to play together a lot. We still can, maybe since we are older we can sneak out and do something or if you want to stay in we can chase after some Techs and make their lives Hell." It would be fun to see those guys running for their lives again from Pepper's claws and games. He lifted a hand up to scratch at his ear that had been chewed on in an affectionate manner by Pepper, "I miss us having fun together."

Pepper nodded his head again in agreement. "I've...gone out a lot lately. Met a lot of new people...I'd like you to meet them with me too...we have fun...I suppose.." he drawled a bit as he realized a lot of the ones he met were..much younger than they were now. He gave a snort and then shook his head a bit. He forced a smile on his face,
"Just need you home first."

He starred for a moment before laughing, "Mmm, making new friends? I think I might be a little jealous." He said with a laugh, "I am glad to hear that your getting out though, that your meeting people. That's a good thing." It meant that he was getting a chance at doing what all the other spawn from the Labs were allowed to do in a manner Pepper and himself had struggled to do at first. It was so hard to make friends when one wasn't allowed to leave a place that people would rather avoid.

He stared at the ground and ran a hand through his hair feeling more and more tired as the dream tried to solidify. "So...am I always going to get yanked into your dreams when you sleep from now on?" He could picture this being a rather annoying thing. As much as he adored Luthor him being forced to be in his dreams every time he slept wasn't something he would look forward to.

"I don't think so... does it?" Luthor flushed and he scratched a hand against his cheek, "I... really don't know, that wasn't what I was hoping for but thus far my magic has been a bit... iffy..." At best.

"If its like that I will see what I can do to reverse it." Oops... well hopefully it wouldn't turn out with Vampy showing up to yell at him the moment he got home

Pepper snorted and continued to hold onto Luthor a bit desperately. He didn't want to let go of him...even in a dream. He was afraid each time he left him he'd never see him again.

"I swear your giving me a complex..." He muttered as he bit Luthor's shoulder a bit harder than normal. He wanted to give him a start not seriously hurt him. "Look....next time if your going to leave...tell me. I was a wreck when you left..."

Luthor snuggled his friend close, stroking his hair in a soothing manner, "I didn't mean to do that to you Pepper, your my best friend... I will be home soon and I will make it up to you, alright?" Giving a bit of a jolt at the sharper bite but he didn't protest as he was more then certain he deserved it and more. He gave him a smile, "If I ever leave again for more then a walk I will let you know or bring you with, deal?"

He grumbled and nodded his head, He found his hands moving to stroke Luthor's back that seemed to be bothering him.
"Wings huh?" he murmured softly against Luthor's skin. He went to continue chewing on the spot absently , "Guess I won't be able to tackle you anymore..." he sounded a bit sad by that.

Luthor blinked a couple times then pouted, "Not gonna tackle me, huh? Because you don't want to hurt me or because you don't think you can?" He teased. He doubted highly that he would be able to stand up against a tackle well but he wold rather his friend tackle him and be happy. He leaned forward to rest his chin on Pepper while he was chewed on, he didn't seem to be bothered by the touch of his hands on his back since it felt quite numb.

He gave another n** on his shoulder area, so far it was going to be pretty bruised from the abuse of his teeth, but this was just a dream. He licked the spot, suddenly feeling very weird. Thrown off much like when he envisioned ripping Luthor's throat out he stopped what he was doing immediately and then pushed himself away from Luthor a bit abruptly.
"Luthor...is it safe for you to be sleeping now? With what is happening to you? usually people who realize they are dreaming wake up ..." He stated with a shrug of his head.

Luthor gave a little shiver as he was chewed on but seemed not to try to fight his friend off, instead he just smiled at him, "Hrm? I was told it was best to be asleep... and I don't think I can wake up yet, not since I didn't fall asleep in a natural manner." He murmured, lifting a hand up to rub it against the damp, chewed on area.

Pepper nodded his head slowly...so did that mean he was trapped here with Luthor? That wasn't a bad thing..no it meant Luthor couldn't leave him suddenly he relaxed a bit though still felt weird. It..reminded him when he met with Lironax, that weird feeling. He couldn't figure what it was...he crossed his arms across his chest feeling cold...and then the green ad brown room seemed to come into focus. A forest the sun dappling through the trees. He could nearly envision the heat. Of course the bed was in the middle of this forest.. he looked around a bit wide eye'd at what he was seeing. It was..the same forest he had met Edes in. He recognized the tree he had been climbing to find Luthor.

Luthor gave a happy sound as he looked around, "Woah... look at that." He murmured, smiling in a happy manner as he looked around the cold room that instead become a forest, "Wow, this is wonderful." He wasn't sure how they had ended up in a forest but he wasn't going to question it, not when it felt nice and warm here. It even smelled like a forest which made it surprisingly real even if his bed were sitting in the middle of the woods.

Pepper felt a bit startled by the change, more so that he...had merely thought on it on a whim rather than over thinking it like he normally did. Maybe that was the trick, He looked to his clawed fingers and then jumped back in surprise when they shimmered and became like normal fingers. no claws. Blinking he looked his hands over and then half turned and took Luthor's chin with them. Wow...he could...touch people..and not be worried about hurting them. Excited he was wondering what else he could do.

"Wow! Look I am getting better at this controlling the dream thing!"

Luthor's eyes went a bit wide as his friend's hand seemed to shift and turn into something else, he gave a smile when he felt the other take hold of his chin, "That's a neat trick Pepper." He murmured, lifting his hand up to pat his friend's hand, finding that it not only looked different but felt it as well. That was rather, amazing. If only he could get his own powers to work as well... just just needed to practice was all he told himself, not wanting to insult his magic with even just thoughts like that. He still felt guilty over how often he complained about it when he was younger.

Pepper nodded his head rather excited by it all. Though as if delayed he felt exhausted. He went to slump against Luthor feeling as if he could fall asleep right there and then. But..he was sleeping..so what would happen if he fell asleep inside of a dream? The thought worried him a bit. And so he forced his eyes open.

"I can't wait for you to come home...I want to feel you for real... this is just a dream..nothing is real here..." He murmured looking at his normal fingers a bit in awe.

"You look sort of tired." Luthor said, finding that a bit strange. Weren't they sleeping at the moment? He gave a bit of a shrug as he stroked his friend's hair in a soothing manner, "Do you think you would feel better if you woke up from this dream?" He asked, wanting to release him from it if possible though he would miss him until he was able to get home again to see him for real.

He gave a sigh and went to clasp Luthor's hand eagerly since it meant he wouldn't hurt him.

"Yeah ..It takes a lot of energy to make the dream bend to my will..." He shrugged and then he chewed on Luthor's fingers lightly. He wished this was real, that he wouldn't wake up and be back at the labs with a rather angry Vampy he imagined. "I guess...I should go...I am not sure just how..patient Vampy will be with me unconscious. He chuckled imagining the look of annoyance on the elders face.

Luthor gave a nod, "Well... if you think it would help, you can blame me. He hates me anyways so I doubt it would hurt our... 'relationship' any." He said, giving Pepper a smile before his closed eyes. He tried to focus his magic on releasing its hold on Pepper.

Pepper snorted and then shook his head. He wasn't going to blame Luthor. No way was he going to do that. Only the cowardly laid the blame on someone else. "I am sure he will deal with it. " he stated, " or I'll make him deal." He threatened with a smile. He felt..light headed suddenly as the hold of him in this word was weakening.

"I will see you again soon." He murmured, giving his friend a smile as he saw the manner in which Pepper's normally bright colors seemed to fade a bit. At least he was able to do some things right with his magic he thought to himself, he really needed to sit down and practice he told himself. Better then only doing things now and again to try to figure the power out, "Good bye Pepper."

Pepper looked a bit surprised but even as he went to protest he was gone. It felt like he slammed back to the earth and when his eyes snapped open he was staring at the ceiling. This...wasn't the classroom. This...was the medical ward! He sat up abruptly and grimaced as he yanked a couple of cords that were attached to him out.

"....Good. Your awake. Care to tell me what that was about?" Came the silky tone of Vampy who was in the room observing him.

Pepper turned his attention to Vampy before he just shrugged his shoulders.

"Was tired."

"...after blowing up a desk...I imagine you would be. Though I admit we were a bit flustered by the fact we couldn't wake you."

Pepper didn't know how to respond as he slipped out of the bed and took the rest of the weird things off.

"Don't know what to tell you..." he stated as he left the room.

Breakfast and Shopping

Ciaran just purred as he got a hug from his friend and thought it was very nice as he like the close contact. "All right but you have to do the same thing as well. I don't want you to wander around alone again." he replied as he thought about how he help him become sane and he knew there was nothing he could think of to repay Luthor for that. Ciaran took Luthor down and he had been right as Sokan had just make them some breakfast, eggs, bacon, toast and hash browns. As Sokan set the last of the plates on the table. "At least my timing is good. I was wondering when you two would come down. Eat all you want," he said as he put fish on his plate and sat down.

Luthor's little wings gave a flutter as he approached the table, looking over everything that had been laid out for them and he gave Sokan a grateful look, "Thank you very much, for this and for everything else." He said to the snake man, his tone one that was very thankful. These two had been nothing but kind to him and he didn't think he could thank them enough for allowing him to stay here and rest here, were he somewhere else he didn't know what might have happened to him when his wings came in.

He took a step at the table, looking everything over and seemed to be trying to figure out what he wanted first since it all looked amazing.

"Your very welcome, its nice to have others over," Sokan replied as he cut up his fish and started to eat. Ciaran gave Luthor a little nudge for him to sit at the table as Ciaran was also trying to decide on what he wanted to eat first and then spotted that there was ketchup on the table too and decided he wanted to eat some hash browns first.

Luthor moved to settled down into his seat, taking a moment to get comfortable given he was new to having wings and not exactly sure at first how he was supposed to sit. Once he'd found a good position he set to filling his plate, taking some of everything before he began to eat finding that he was feeling a bit ravenous, as though all the changes in his body now had it demanding food! It really didn't take him long to clean his plate and he seemed to barely be chewing as much as he was inhaling. He blinked when he realized there was none left and he glanced between Ciaran and Sokan, "Ahh... Can I take a bit more?" He asked, not wanting to take Ciaran's share as well but he still felt a bit hungry.

Taking the seat next to Luthor and took what he wanted of the hash browns and bacon. Getting all that he wanted and started to eat. He wasn't half way through his own plate when Luthor asked for more. "Go right ahead. I have all I want and I can always make more toast if I want," he said and knew that Luthor needed it as he had just grown and Ciaran knew that he had gotten enough and poured Luthor some juice to drink as he filled his own glass.

Luthor glanced over at Ciaran's plate, feeling a bit like a pig for eating so mucj but he didn't hold himself back when he was told he could have more. He was soon happily munching on his second helping of food seeming to be able to eat more slowly this time around and enjoy the food instead of having to gulp it down to take the edge off of his hunger, "This is all really good, better then what we have back home." Not to mention half the time it meant battling it out with the techs to get anything close to good at the Labs...

"Well I'm glad your enjoying it, Sokan make very good breakfasts. I'm also learning how to cook too. But I'm not that very good yet," he said. "But you will be with practice and when you think your good enought you should have Luthor come over to eat," Sokan added as he finished his own plate of fish as Ciaran finished up eating is own. "Ciaran don't worry about cleaning up I will get to that. The both of you go and have some fun and do take care of yourself Luthor," Sokan said as he took his own dishes to the kitchen to start cleaning up the dishes he had use to make the breakfast.

"I look forward to you cooking for me very much." He said, hoping to encourage his friend. He was quite curious to see what Ciaran was learning to make as well. He finished up what was on his plate quickly to catch up with the others and rose to his feet, "Thanks again, Sokan. And I will see you the next time that I visit." He told the older male before he turned his attention to Ciaran, giving him a smile.

Blushing a little as he knew his friend was giving him encouragement, but knew that it was bad now and he knew it all took practice. "Thanks, it will be something good. But I don't know what that will be right now," he said. "Your welcome and I look forward to that," he replied and turned to doing the dishes. Ciaran smiled and took Luthor to the study real quick before the left. Getting into the desk and taking out a slim box and handing it to him. Inside that box was a key to the house and on the key chain was several glass beads, one blue, one gray and purple, one that was purple and the last one was white and blue. With a few of Ciaran's feathers attached to it as well.

Luthor glanced down at the box that he was handed, looking for a moment confused before he opened it up and his eyes went a bit wide, "Ahh... are you sure?" He asked, a little surprised as he withdrew the key with its very pretty and decorative key chain. He lifted it up to swing it back and forth in front of his face before smiling, it was a wonderful gift he thought to himself before he looked at Ciaran, "Its... wonderful, thank you so much."

"Yes I'm sure, how else are you suppose to get into the house if by chance we are not here, silly. We lock the house up when we are not here so others don't try to take stuff from the house." he said and smiled. "Your welcome and we should go out now before there are too many people out and about," he said. Taking his friends hand and went out the door and to a very nice clothing shop not all that far from the Labs.

The white haired spawn was purely in awe of such a wonderful gift, that he was allowed to come here and not only come but to walk in with this key even if they weren't home. It was... amazingly generous of them to allow. He tucked it away carefully into the box once more and the box into his pocket, "I will take very good care of it." He promised, then laced his finger together with those of his friend and gave his hand a squeeze as they headed out to were the clothing shop was. He looked into the window first before they headed in before smiling, "Such nice things in there." He murmured, spotting several things that were blue that he rather liked, a few gold things, and one red thing that was nice and reminded him a bit of Pepper's coloring that he liked too.

Ciaran just smile as it was a gift enough for him just to be with his best friend and doing things together. There were a lot of very beautiful things in the clothing store as it was locally owned and for the fact that it also had other things inside and just not clothing but most of it was. "There is," he replied as he took a look around for himself. Lets find you something beautiful to wear," he said as he also looking around for something for him."Also it might be nice to get something for Pepper too," he added.

Luthor looked over at Ciaran before giving him a smile, "I think Pepper might like that though... he never seemed a bit fan of wearing clothing." He said with a little chuckle, that he'd even been wearing pants when they met in the dream he'd had was a surprise to Luthor given for the most part his friend had been a bit of a streaker, "Maybe we can find him something though." Something to make up for the hurt he'd caused his friend.

Ciaran smiled too as the pair Pepper was wearing were a little tattered, but then thought that he just might like it that way and didn't know that he didn't like them. "Well if clothing aren't his thing then there had got to be something here that he might like." he said as he thought of some ideas. "Well we could get him a scarf or a trinket of some kind,"

A soft giggle came from Luthor as he tried to picture Pepper in a scarf and thought he might end up trying to strangle both him and Ciaran with it, "Maybe, let's hunt around and see what we can find for him." He said, finding the idea of seeking out a gift for Pepper as being the ultimate challenge.

He also giggled too as he also tried to picture Pepper in the scarf too and it didn't look all that good. "I think that's a good idea," he replied, looking around that Pepper might like and the shiny caught he eye. "How about something shiny?"

"Hrm, maybe." He murmured, wondering what the other spawn would think of a shiny trinket as a gift. He gave a nod, "I think that he might like it... though something that was closer to the skin, he runs around so much something that was loose might get snagged and pulled off of him."

Thinking and looking over all the different type of jewelery in the case that was something that was close to the skin and shiny. His eye caught his eye was a bunch of different types of metal arm bands. "How about a metal arm band that has some nice design in it or some stones," he offered as he found a few things he liked as well.

"Ohhh, that could work rather well actually." He murmured, looking inside at the armbands, "They would suit him actually." He was sure that Pepper would look really nice wearing something like that and might actually wear it as well if it were something tough looking he mused to himself.

"That's cool," he replied as he thought about the materials that would be the toughest and would look better over time and look good with dings in it. The he spotted some pure copper armbands with a nice hammered finished to them. "Then gold or silver wouldn't be the best. But I think he would look good in silver, but I think that copper would be the best and it looks good with some tarnish to it," he said as he pointed to the said armbands.

Luthor looked the armbands over before he nodded, thinking on the colors that Pepper sported on his body before giving a smile, "Those would look good on him." He said, sounding almost childish in his excitement over them. Then again given he'd just grown to this size he still was pretty naive about a lot of things. He gave a rapid nod before he saw the price attached to them and gave a little sound in his throat, "Ahh... hrmm... I don't really have any money, especially not that much." He said, tapping a finger against his chin.

"That is good, I think we should get those then," he said as he looked around for a worker. Then Ciaran had to giggle at what his friend had pointed out how much they were going to cost. "Well its not as bad as the silver one," he said pointing to the ones that were in silver and more decorated. "Don't worry about the price I will get them and that just means you have to hang out with me more," he said as Ciaran would pay anything to hangout with his friend and had fun.

Luthor looked over at his friend before he gave him a smile, "You don't need to buy stuff for me to get me to hang out with you though... that is nice of you. Hrm... I really think that Pepper will like them." He murmured as he looked the copper bands over again before nodding. Somehow he could almost picture him running around the Labs with just those on terrorizing the Techs. The odd thought caused his cheeks to flush slightly though he wasn't sure why he blushed at the idea.

"I know, but I didn't want you to worry about the prices of things. As money is just money, but best friends are forever," he said as a worker got out the bands and he told her that there was more things they were getting before they would get those. She nodded and went back up to the front with them. Ciaran did see his friend blush and wondered to what the thought was and then told himself off in his mind that was a stupid thing to ask himself. "So now we just need to get you some clothing and then off to the labs." he said. He still didn't want his friend to go but it would also be nice to see Pepper again and he was also going to make sure bad things didn't happen to Luthor when he returned.

"If you sure about that." He murmured, he didn't understand to much about money and the only time he really had run into it while working at the Labs was that there was a need to have some to get things out of the vending machines. The difference between what they wanted for snacks and drinks was greatly different from what they wanted for clothing and jewelry he thought to himself as he stepped closer to Ciaran, "Lets go look around then, see what we can find. There were some really pretty things that I saw from the window." He said, his wings giving a flutter... as though recalling they were there he looked over his shoulder at them. Would be a bit tough to find shirts now, wouldn't it he thought to himself.

"I am as money is common and worthless compared to that of a true friendship which is more valuable." he said as he didn't know what he would have done if Luthor hadn't been there. He might have spent the rest of his life in the labs not truly living. Smiling, "That sound good," he replied as he spotted Luthor looking at his wing and he thought to what his friend might be thinking about his wings and shirts and giggled a little. "Don't worry, I know they can alter clothing for your wings, as I have seen other people around town that have wings too,"

Luthor gave a happy sound as Ciaran seemed to be reading his mind and assured him of the one thing he'd worried about, "Wonderful!" He said, moving along to looking through the clothing, running his hands over the various fabrics, and all but purring at a few things that he found particularly nice. So much nice stuff! As he went about inspecting the clothing Luthor was completely oblivious to the fact that he was drawing stares, the fact that he looked as he looked was rather lost on him. He saw the beauty in other sure, but never looking at himself in that same manner since he had just been looking at himself. His walking around in just the loaned pants didn't help matters any.

"What do you think of this one." He said, holding up a particular gold colored shirt that had caught his eye.

Smiling as his friend was having fun looking and feeling all of the clothing and that is all that really mattered to to him. Ciaran knew they were being stared at and he just didn't care and he stuck his tongue out to a few of them just to get them to stop starring as he love how Luthor looked even if he was a little lost and stuff. Ciaran never really thought he was beautiful, he thought he look ok but not beautiful. Ciaran looked the shirt over and smiled. "I think that is a great choice and it will look very good on you,"

A happy look appeared on Luthor's cheeks before he held it against his chest, "It is nice." He murmured, checking to see if it went with the pants that he had borrowed or if he would need to find some that went with the shirt. It didn't look to bad he thought to himself. Then again given the color of his hair, skin, scales, horn, and wings he was nearly a rainbow anyway so did it really matter if his clothing match perfectly? He didn't think so... he smiled.

Home Coming

A Tense Meeting

He was wandering the halls after he had his conversation with his Dad, tucking the Fallen into bed so he could rest, and was currently in search for food, real food, for him. He wondered if he'd not been eating at all since he had gone off on his own. He was worried now, his Dad was... he was good at taking care of him, of Pepper, of all the work around him, but he seemed so bad at taking care of himself. It was a strange thought, strange feeling that he suddenly wanted to take care of Almas in the way that he'd been taken care of, to keep him safe, happy... he didn't like this place or the effect it had on him. He liked Vampy and the the way that he affected the angel even less... it seemed as though he crush him without even trying, without even knowing how easy it was for his words to hurt him. He hated that guy so much... he just wanted to... to kick him! A part of him wished there was a way to make that b*****d hurt but he wouldn't stoop to his level and use his magic in such a manner, no he meant to allow his magic to remain pure and use it only for good causes.

What he had to do was figure out a way to save his Dad from Vampy and the Labs forever, it was the 'how' that he was missing currently so he found himself thinking on the idea hard, wings flapping behind him as though in tune with his racing thoughts. He would figure this out... it just involved a level plotting that he had never bothered with before now. Then again before now things had all seemed supremely simple given he was to young to really understand anything. The fun of youth, getting to be stupidly oblivious he thought to himself as he turned down the hall that would bring him to where the cafeteria was located.

The silver haired gentleman was still standing in his office still trying to figure out his thoughts when it came to Almas. Though he knew there was nothing to really think about, since the angel was still in his clutches to a sense. Part of him wanted to break him further...let the boy of his know that he hadn't stopped him from going in search of him. Everything he had done was to himself. Vampy hadn't even done anything in that regards. Rather than being proud he found himself frustrated.

Running a hand through his hair he moved to leave his office. Whatever...there had been so many things going on lately he felt his nerves fraying around the edges. He needed to recollect himself. So he walked aimlessly noting here and there different auras. Find it ..a bit ironic..a particular aura was coming closer.

Luthor felt a strange, creeping feeling go up his spine as he walked along, making his eyes to flick from side to side, what was this sensation? It felt almost like... dread? That couldn't be quite right, no, something else. He gave a grumbling sound as he forced the feeling back, not about to be so easily cowed just because he was approaching a place that a lot of those techs gathered. He wasn't a child anymore, he didn't have to fear them being mean, if they said a thing to him he would show them his horn was useful for more then just decorating his forehead he thought to himself crossly.

Vampy felt ..strange. The uncomfortable sensation growing until he finally rounded the corner and spotted him. That hair was unmistakable the aura as well. He took a sharp intake of breath a slight hissing sound as he firmed up his guise. That was what it was...because the brat was here his magical disguise was weakening.

Oh well...he needed to speak with the lad anyway.

"Luthor." Came his rather firm voice, though it wasn't loud it seemed to carry easily to the others ears.

Luthor froze in place at the sound of the voice before he turned to look over at Vampy, starring at him for a moment before he turned to continue onward toward his goal of the cafeteria. He didn't want to deal with him, would rather go and stand against the damn demons in the dungeon rather then have to talk with the blood donor that was calling his name in a manner that caused him to bristle.

He had expected as much from him though he only smirked his eyes widened ever so slightly as he spotted tiny pair of wings he was sporting. Hmmm apparently he had gotten more from Almas's side more than he would of cared for. He supposed it was a good thing.

"Luthor...its about Almas. " He persisted though he hadn't moved yet.

Luthor bristled more and finally turned to look over at to look at Vampy, eyes narrowing in an unfriendly manner, "Don't bother, I've seen him and talked with him already." He told him, "And now I am seeing to getting him some dinner now for after his nap." He made it sound simple enough, though it also sounded a bit odd that he had somewhat reversed their roles but given Almas wasn't feeling his best it wasn't any bother to Luthor... not to mention he had much to make up for.

"It can wait. If he is sleeping it won't matter if you bring it to him now or later." Came the tone that was holding a slight warning to it.

"Besides, I have a matter of importance to discuss with you...it involves Pepper as well." He stated trying to lure the child into coming with him. He knew Almas had a weak spot for both Almas and the failed experiment.

Luthor turned to look at him, arms crossing over his chest, and his wings gave a quick flap, "What do you want?" He asked, what was he wanted by mentioning the names of those that were important to him? "If I ignore you further, let me guess you will have something important to tell me about Ciaran as well?"

He raised an eyebrow obviously amused by the accusation. "No, is there something I should know about him?" He inquired before he took a half step away on the intent of going back to his office.

"This sort of discussion should be held...out of prying hearing shot. There are many things you have missed in your rather selfish act of running away...perhaps it is time to learn of the difficulties that have been given to your two loved ones."

"There isn't a damn thing you need to know about him." He snapped, not wanting any attention from this b*****d turning onto his friend who was at the moment happy again. Last thing he wanted was undo stress that would cause him another break. He took a half step toward Vampy at the mention of his loved one and their difficulties, "I already know about them, all of which seem to stem from you... if I were to hazard a guess I'd say it was you who tried to strangle my Dad as well. Seems like something you'd do."

He gave a sneer, "A minor mishap I assure you. It won't happen again." He promised as he wasn't going to let his emotions take the better of him again. "If you know everything than I guess Pepper already told you about his ..hardships. I guess he is stronger than I originally thought...I didn't think that he'd take the information so well..." He stated as if bored and then turned to walk away.

"As well I needed to discuss with you about a class you need to take."

"No it won't, I don't want you anywhere near my Dad again, ever!" He said his anger rising more when the p***k admitted that he had in fact had his hands around his father's neck. He wanted nothing more at the moment to hurt him, so much... his hands clenched into fists at his side. He found himself lifting an eyebrow over what he said about Pepper but said nothing one way or the other, he would talk with his friend later when he could catch him alone and see what was going on.

Vampy stopped and then looked over his shoulder a glint of something in his eyes.

"Is that so? Want to make a deal then?" He asked with a tone that only sounded too much like a cat that had a mouse cornered. "I can make a deal that I won't ever approach your 'father' again. I can't stop him from coming to me though..." He purred, "But...you have to understand to give there is take. There are a few things I require and need from you.."

Luthor gave a chuckle, "Do you think me as dumb as the others around you? I have the same magic as you Vampy, remember? I know what all it entails and as such there won't be any bargains between us. It was just a warning was all, soon enough I will figure out how to get my Father out of this place." He said, not amused in the least at the guy trying to make a bargain with him using his father as a bargaining chip, "I will never understand what he sees in you."

"Probably because you don't bother to find out the details." HE snorted as he eye'd the young one again. At least he had wizened up to how their magic worked. Foolish brat.

"I have scheduled for a class with Mr.Zyane, a human who dallies in necromancy as well other things..please try and learn something."

"Why do you care if I go or not? Its not as if you have bothered before now unless there was something in it for you." He said, getting that much more frustrated by this conversation.

Vampy gave a pause the smile on his face spreading.

"You are my blood..I have high expectations from you. You will learn, besides...I will have need of you on a journey soon...as well a few other volunteers."

Luthor wrinkled his nose, "Don't bother to claim a connection to me now, its far to late for that." Not that he would have had anything to do with him after seeing what he did to Pepper so long ago, a scene that had been all but branded into his young mind. He turned on his heel to start away from him, "Your journey be damned." He muttered, wondering why Vampy thought he would be going anywhere with him.

"Unless you wish to force my hand, you will go to the class. You should learn about your genetics...see what you are capable of. And whether or not you wish to acknowledge me as your parent, the blood is in you regardless. I think I will have Mr. Zyane invite your friend to his class as well..."

Luthor rounded on him, "Don't go near him." He growled, feeling his anger rising again, mental cursing himself for having mentioned Ciaran's name to Vampy of all people.

"Oh I won't be, but don't forget what I have said. You need to go to this class. And perhaps you should take heed of my warning. I would avoid Pepper, until he figures things out for himself. He is a tad bit...unsettled after that event."

"That sound more like something you'd do, avoid the people that might need you." He said, not about to avoid Pepper if his friend needed him the same way Vampy so happily avoided Almas when he needed help. He was mad at himself for leaving as well as at Vampy for... existing and Almas for being attached to someone that wasn't worth it, "If there is anything else?"

"Go to the class. And I will leave your father alone at least for a little while. " He offered the trade and let it hang in the air before he turned and padded of.

"Fine, see that you do." He said, turning to stalk off toward the cafeteria, his mood rather foul now. Damn it all to Hell he was going to make that b*****d suffer one day he thought to himself, a darker thought then he normal thought on but Vampy seemed good at bringing out the worst in him.

Focus Class