It really wasn't meant to happen.
A day like any other for the pair. It was only a few days before the holiday all the hubub was about. Well more than a few days, five to be exact. The 19th of December and all through the town each mother was stirring with mighty a frown. Each was in search of that precious object their child had asked for. The one that had previously been hidden. Thus, the last few days of madness had swept the city and taken over in a storm.
It made Haruki ever so pleased he worked as a teacher rather than in a store. Not that he ever would, but all the same. Retail workers must have had to work so many extra hours these last few weeks. He could only imagine. He himself had needed to work a few extra hours lately to ensure all the paperwork was finished before the holidays. He didn't particularly like Christmas himself, but he also assumed Revon wanted a 'traditional' holiday. Which suggested that Haruki would need to be there and able to cook that day. Thus, he needed the free time. A few hours the week before didn't bother him anyway, so there really was nothing to complain about. Though as he strode past a group of screeching children he did find something he might have grumbled over.
Those flocks of barely attended munchkins could go.
Of course, that was a bit hypocritical. He did have Revon with him, the dark creature in brilliant pink. However, the raven was far better behaved than the other children. He simply clung to the pale pink doll titled 'Rainbow' and followed along. He was quiet and subdued. Not a a loud accident waiting to happen. This was something Haruki had to say he was proud of in the child. The boy behaved in a way that was far more mature than even some of the children older than him. Then again, the pink streak that ran deep was the price he seemed to pay for the obedient child. Pink hair, clothes, shoes, and even toys. Having a child who was in your care and a boy refered to as a darling 'daughter' more than one couldn't be too healthy for one's mentality. Not after a long enough time anyway.
The red-head couldn't complain though. He had chosen not to stop the child when it was proclaimed the ivory locks were to be dyed a pale shade of pink. Rather, he'd given the child a go ahead as he had when the boy chose clothing. One's appearance should be strictly one's own choice. Even if it was hard for the man to stand aside and watch as any proof that Revon was infact a boy, he had stuck by the resolution and simply nodded in silence allowing it. Such was the relationship. Both child and adult understood it well.
Although at times Revon did seem the enjoy guilting Haruki into things. But only on occaision. He never overused it to the put the aloof teacher became immune to the requests. Usually petty and harmless in nature. That was what started the event that day. One tiny little request.
Something as simple as hot chocolate could do a lot.
The pair had only been on their way to pick up some groceries, walking along the same path they would always trek. The same sights, the same shops. Nothing out of the ordinary about the day at all. A plaintive tug at his sleeve drew the man's attention to the boy at his side. The dark skinned child had paused and the obvious telltale signs of a request shown on his face. After it was assured that the adult was listening the timid child spoke up. "Could I please get a cup of cocoa?" They had only a second before passed the coffee shop, which obviously served hot chocolate as well, so the request did make sense. Though there was a moment of akward silence that the child quickly tried to fill. "R-rainbow wants some because it's cold." Ahh, there was the reason behind it. A worthy reason if Revon was a bit chilled, for certainly the plush could not feel the wind.
A faint nod was given as the response along with a 'wait here.' Then Haruki was turning to wander back the few paces to purchase the drink. Revon had always been an obedient child, one of the few things Keivlos might have done right to an extent. The twin brother had beaten his shy sibling's ego into a state of utter compliance. The boy rarely did anything against an order given. Though bit by bit that seemed to be changing. The young bird was slowly crawling back out of the shell his hellion of a brother had driven him into. Haruki would have to be blind not to see that.
Though that wasn't entirely the cause for today's mishap. Perhaps a combination of that and odd circumnstance. For as Haruki was away the child found himself in an odd situation. Neither parent nor child had bothered to look at the less than astounding building Revon had been left standing before in silence. Thus when a tawny haired child strode out of the door curiosity set in. Bi-coloured eyes met the muddy brown ones in silence. Then it was broken.
"You get ditched here too?"
A frown crossed the bird's face. Ditched? He didn't quiet understand the whole concept of it. "N-no. Haru just went to get s-some cocoa." The avian quietly replied, tugging the pink plush closer to him as if to create a greater sense of security. "He'll be back in a moment." Half true. Revon didn't ralize there had been a line in the coffee place. One the teacher would be stuck in for a time.
The child frowned at this, almost seeming upset at the notion that Revon hadn't been left there. Perhaps life had been too unfair to the boy and he simply wished for another to know and understand the wrong cast upon him. "So you've got big plans for the holidays then?" The voice was less than sugar coated, more like that of a snake baiting you closer. A bit of honey mixed with venom. A poison known as jealousy. For what child didn't wish to have a family to go home to around this time of year?
Sadly, the boy was a bit to trusting in nature and fell right for the deceitful tongue. An over exuberant nod given in response. "Yes, Haruki is going to cook and there will be presents."
Again he'd used the name. The orphan grimaced at this. It was like rubbing it in his face to keep talking about one's family. Even if the response had been prompted by a question he himself had asked. Still, he inched forward a step as if eager to continue the conversation, once more the sly voice cutting into the chill winter air. "Presents huh? Like that?" He indicated the stuffed creature that showed between the folds of pink cloth that adorned the bird's body. Ah yes, the rainbow eyed plush.
A smile came upon the boy's face at this. He did hope to get Rainbow a friend, but it wasn't a given. "I think Rainbow would like that, but I'm not sure. This is my first Christmas." The child had only a brief understanding of the holiday from the books he'd read. Unlike his keeper, he couldn't visualize how things worked simply by reading it. It had to be something he admired about the man. For Revon... seeing was understanding. Certainly after a Christmas of his own he would be able to comprehend the wonder of it.
The boy, who appeared to be around eleven, seemed rather puzzled at this. First Christmas? The boy before him could not be less than six. And seemed older than that certainly. So why on earth would the child not know Christmas? Still, the green-eyed beast held tight and confusion was soon doused with malice toward the fortunate boy. A firm smirk tugging it's way onto his face. "Ohh, well... may I see Rainbow?" Jealousy meant ruining that bit of happiness those more lucky were blessed with. He'd found one simple way to go about it.
A simple request, polite and certainly it didn't seem a threat to the bird. A polite nod was given and a final squeeze before the object in question was held out daintily to the boy. Afterall, sharing was caring. Or so people said. Revon wasn't one to be cruel and uncaring, now was he? The boy didn't like to think he was. Obvious concern did was over his face as the doll was plucked hastily from his hand rather than accepted and admired. As soon as the object was transfered the boy seemed to vanish. Though not truly, he simply darted for the door and was within the orphanage again within a moment. Which left Revon at a slight loss. Then a quick fumble as if he thought that Rainbow had simply dropped from his hands. A brief sense of denial and then a voice.
"Revon your-" The red-head never had a chance to finish as the boy quickly looked over his shoulder at the parent then after a quick rush of 'he took Rainbow' was following after past the heavy wooden doors.
Since when had getting hot chocolate been this troublesome?
The bird had obviously delayed too long in his shock. The old child had vanished from view by the time he'd shoved open the heavy door and entered the building. Instead a homey atmosphere dusted over with the official hand of business stood before him. A counter with a few cluttered pieces of paper and two doors two choose from. No one was in sight at the moment, so the child simply chose one of the wooden doors and tugged it open before darting down along the hallway head twisting to and fro in search of the child who'd snatched his friend away.
Thunk, thunk, thunk. At first the only sound was the frail bird's boots along the wooden boards of the hall. Then as if by magic he realized there was the quiet mumbling of voices. A bout of panic ran through the boy. Not one voice. Plural. Revon wasn't exactly the most social child in the history of mankind. Friendly? Yes, certainly he was friendly, but... A distinct frown crossed the now paused child's face. He didn't like being surrounded by people. He simply didn't. Groups frightened him. He'd only recently overcome the fear of being around single people, he doubted he'd handle a large gathering well, especially not without some form of security. It was at this moment he looked back in search of the tall guardian he'd been with only minutes before. The red-head was nowhere to be found.
Even worse Revon realized he didn't quite know where he was in the building anymore. He'd been in such a frantic search that he hadn't been watching where he was going. An obvious mistake, one he had made before. The recollection of the night spent with the girl who glowed slightly fluttered up into his mind briefly before he dashed it back down. This was different. It was only a building, not the forest.
Still, as anxiety set in the child began backtracking slightly, a hum escaping his lips. It was more nervous behavior than anything, a subconcious attempt to sooth his own nerves. The bird enjoyed singing, possibly a side effect of the raven genes that ran in him. It was calming to hear a familiar sound that mimicked something he adored, which was likely what allowed the boy to start making some sense out of his location. This area looked slightly familiar, perhaps a little. Then the train of thought was interrupted by an abrupt new noise. Something of a coo and a giggle merged. Maybe it was just a gurgle, but it drug the birds attention to the door it had escaped from. A brief peek to into the crack in silence, for the noise had stopped his humming to himself, proved a view at a young child on the floor. Not quite an infant, but not a toddler either.
Haruki had stepped inside shortly after Revon, quickly looking for the bird himself. Sadly, he'd been slowed by trying to keep the steaming chocolate from splashing all over his hand, thus he'd been greeted by only a door left ajar by the child in his haste. A few quick steps brought him to it when a voice stopped him.
"Can I help you, sir?" The tone was neither friendly nor hostile. Just curious and subdued with that of business as it's main trait. The woman it was attached to showed a similar quality, though the lines of worry that only a mother figure always were worn into her face. Obviously the effect of time.
"My child is here, I'm simply picking him up." Perhaps not the best of word choice for the man to use. Still, to him it was clearcut. As well, he had yet to realize the building was an orphanage, it wasn't as if he'd gone picking through the documents on the counter to check.
A veteran with odd wording, it took more than a few words to get the woman's hopes up for a child. Still, one brow arched at the statement as the brushed a few strands of hair back behind her ear. A prospective parent was not someone to look frumpy before. Even if they were a long shot. "Oh? Your child?" It seemed almost like a joke that the man would word it that way, certainly there was a catch.
A brief nod was given, and a hint of annoyance shone in the single visable eye as the man shifted his wait to face the woman more. A modest creature, worn with time, but still a touch of kick left in her obviously. "Yes, his name is Revon. He's wearing mostly pink, has pink hair, and black skin. He also has wings." Defining features really, the child was unmistakable really. "He also has one red eye and one dark gray eye." As if there needed to be further clarification. Though Haruki was known for being thorough. "He said something about someone taking his plush doll before running in here."
A look of confusion shone momentarily at the statement. Revon? She knew not any child in her care by that name, nor one with such... features. Though the finishing clarification explained it. This was actually the man's child. She had given it a bit of hope too soon obviously. This was over a doll that must have been snatched. By Matteus most likely, the boy had a bit of a problem dealing with children who had families. He'd been left alone with a promise, abandoned. The child did have a reason to be bitter, though it really was unfair to take it out on another child. "Ahh, I see. Do you know where he is?" The question obviously needed no asking, though the building was large, perhaps the red-head had an idea of it. As for the doll. Matteus would be where he always was. Upstairs at his window pouting with his prize. The child really wasn't bad, just misunderstood.
An akward silence held as bi-colored eyes met bi-colored eyes. Revon starring in confusion at the now silent creature whose posture was a mixture of sitting and spawling on the floor and in return the young boy stared right back at the mixture of brilliant pink and black. Then a tiny smile drew across the pale infants face as he waited a moment, feline ears flicking. He was waiting for the music to come back. The happy notes that had earlier been so thick in the air, if not hitched by a mixure of nervousnes. Still, the young boy wanted them back, he'd liked the noise.
Then it was broken as the bird started to step back, the momentary curiosity dismissed. Why he'd even been drawn to look still puzzled him. A delicate step back that was halted by the mixture of a whine and baby talk that escaped the young thing on the floor. A mixed emotion appearing on the older boy's face as he let his head drop a bit closer to define the meaning. Why did the young child wish him to stay? For certainly that was it? "Are you lonely?"
Lonely wasn't quite the word to use. Nor was the child meaning to ask for the dark bird to stay. It was more of a cry of despair that had been issued from the young feline than a cry for the boy to stay. Some bit of him chided that he'd no right to request anything of the other boy. Even if it did not register in the young mind the rule ran true in Phace's sad little call. It was simple sadness over the future lack of continuation rather than a reqest. Nothing demanding was meant by it. Thus no internal law was broken in the timid calling.
It was simply misread.
The young bird inched forward into the once more silent room watching the curious child. His eyes reminded him of his own, and yet his brother's as well. A slight frown crossed the raven's face at the recollection of his twin brother. Then sadness took over and he let his head droop slightly. Keivlos would still hate him wouldn't he? His brother was not so forgiving. As much as Revon attempted to hide it he still wished more than anything to reconcile with his brother. He just... he didn't know how.
A mild gurgle, this more gleeful escaped the child this time. A smimle lighting up the infant's face as he pricked his ears forward and reached up a hand clumsily at the bird. It was staying, the music thing was staying. This was a cause for rejoice, which was what he attempted. Rejoice also meant singing, though that was something out of the young boy's power. Still, perhaps the music box would stop starring at it's feet and begin again?
Revon glanced up as the child seemed to giggle, starring in confusion. It didn't make sense to the boy why this child was so eager to have him there. It seemed to him it could only be loneliness, although the room itself looked as if it belonged to more than one child. It was just the single boy there for the moment. Still, it was a puzzle... One he should try to understand.
A few akward steps brought him closer to the feline, his wings tugging closer to him instinctively as a bout of shyness attempted to overcome him. It was only an infant, nothing to be bashful around. They didn't understand half of anything anyway. Perhaps the child was just eager to play on a whim, that might have been it. A dark hand, half covered by the overwhelmingly puffy sleeve of his jacket reached out as he crouched down to the boy's level. Rather then snagging his fingers though, the child caught the pink fabric in a tiny fist and gave it a few weak tugs before another giggle escaped the baby. A baffled smile made it's way along the avian's face as he watched the child. He hadn't realized earlier, but the young boy was an interesting sight.
Pale white clothing dashed with dark soot coated points. A style which Revon himself found intricate and hard to comprehend. He almost envied it, wishing he might have had an outfit similar for his own. The ears and tail seemed less astounding to him. He'd seen more than a few people with them, but the marking. He'd not seen something such as that before, and his free hand cautiously reached out before running a finger over it carefully. It wasn't pain, a permanent tattoo. It reminded him a bit of a butterfly in a way. A peculiar thing to see on someone's cheek, and below the pale silver hued eye it seemed so out of place. Though perhaps what could be considered more puzzling than the rest was what lay atop the strips of cloth which pooled around the child from it's shirt. A staff about as tall as the boy. On time of it emitted a mist in an almost orblike sphere before another section of metal topped it. The thing was simple, as simple as the child's outfit. Yet it drew your eye as curious when put next to the rather unique looking boy. Alone they were an oddity, together they seemed a bit of a mystery. It certainly didn't help that the child was hard to understand.
Phace stared mutely, his silver eye shutting as one finger drew near and softly traced over his skin. It was a shame. No more music it would seem. Still as the hand drew back the eye opened again before a definite blink as if to adjust them both. Another akward moment of silence before he got another repsonse. This time it was the bird shifting his weight so that he was now sitting as well. If one could call the feline's posture sitting. Still, he released the boy's sleeve to use his arms to try to shove himself up and only succeeded in switching his posture with a flop in the opposite direction. It did earn the infant a minute laugh that was muffled by the bird's hand. Obviously he found it would be rude to laugh openly, but it must have been a curious sight?
After a moment Revon quieted and reached out to help the child sit up, using one of his own legs as a prop for the younger boy. It worked like a charm and the infant seemed pleased again, placing his hand on his own legs as he leaned back and peered up as if waiting. Waiting for what? "You're silly... you know that?" He said it quietly before shoving a few pale strands of hair from his face. "Do you want to play? For me to entertain you?" Revon wasn't good at much. He just... he liked to dance a bit, and sing. He'd mostly begun to sing in order to please his brother, to show the other twin he was useful for something. Not that it had worked. If anything the odd habit had enraged Keivlos further, even if other's enjoyed it. He admitted that now he even enjoyed it and continued for his own devices. Something that was a bit heartwarming, not so much as approval ight have been... but good enough. "If that's really what you want." He was really only talking to himself, expecting no reply from the seemingly wordless child. Oh, he made noise, hejust didn't speak. Not clearly anyhow. The bird knew better than to expect a real response from him.
So perhaps that was why when he began humming again quietly it was so shocking to see the infant close it's eyes and lean back. Ears still at attention to catch each note, though everything else was simply relaxed against his leg. Only the occaisional flick of the cats tail suggested he was still awake. Though as the bird quieted thinking perhaps the boy was tired both eyes opened and glanced back up questioningly. Obviously he wasn't allowed to stop? So once more he began humming one of the happy little tunes he often mimicked in his game and the moment was restored. A blissful little quiet in it's own way.
"I believe he went through this door." The red-head indicated the one behind him for the woman at the question. A brief nod and she started for it, walking around the man who in turn followed.
"Do you have any idea where he might have gone?" The voice was as always coated in a business woman's guise as she casually peered over her shoulder. He obviously didn't know the way either with the blank look at followed. Certainly not. Nothing would be so easy, and to make matters worse Matteus would have gone the opposite way. Well she'd retrieve the possession later. For now they simply needed to find this Revon. Who for all she knew, could have been made up. Had she not seen prospective parents in the past claim something was lost in the building to wander in with no previous promises. So even if a child was not to their liking they would... perhaps feel less guilt for leaving? For certainly they had only come to find what they lost, not to find something new. Perhaps the odd winged child did not exist. Though as they rounded a corner an odd tune graced her ears.
Haruki knew the sound too well as it too reached him. An amused smile momentarily found it's way onto his face. So predictable, the child was so predictable. Humming a tune while hunting for his doll. What could be more like him? Though as that thought slipped from his mind the man quickly realized what he had done. Seconds later the once more bland expression took over his face and a suspicious glance was granted to the woman, testing if she'd seen the smile. The knowing look said she had and the red-head felt a momentary wave of embarrassment as his lack of self control before he quickly spoke to draw the attention back to the tune. "That would be Revon." He quickly said before starting down a hall toward the noise. He reached it before long and was rather shocked at what he saw. Rather than Revon hunting for his doll... the child was lounging on the floor starring down at a teal haired infant. The infant seemed to be more asleep than awake, a blissful smile on it's face as it leaned against one of the brilliant pink pantlegs. What an absolutely odd sight to behold.
It took a moment for Revon to realize he was being watched, though when he did the song abruptly cut off and his eyes switched up to his guardian. It was at this moment that he recalled why he'd come in he first place and he felt a bit of shame creep upon him. He'd been a bit selfish hadn't he. "Ah... Haru..." He didn't quiet know what to say as a woman he had not met before also appeared in the door frame. "I... I was just." He pursed his lips before looking down to the child, who was once more at attention the bi-coloured eyes once more upon him.
The boy had stopped again. No more music once more. Phace had stared silently a moment before his attention turned to the door. Some red-head and the woman who was always around. She often took care of him, sometimes humming as well since he enjoyed it. Which only brought a new thought to mind. Two people to sing. The very idea caused a joyful noise to escape the infant as he leaned forward to tug the staff he'd left sitting a moment closer. It should hear too.
This really did raise a brow. So the child did exist. Well that made some sense, not what really puzzled the woman was that he'd learned so quickly just what would sooth that boy so quickly. Phace, she had learned, enjoyed nothing more than music. Not any music though, something sung by people. Aside from that it didn't matter. She'd tried a tape of lullabies before, but had only succeeded in causing an endless cry that woke up a few other children. She'd never allowed such music near the boy since. Still, she didn't tell everyone that and had never seen the child before. He couldn't have been more than nine, so it was rather shocking to think he'd figured it out so quickly. Impressive really. What a shame for face they weren't here for a child.
A quiet cough brought attention to her as she graced them both with a practiced smile. "I'll go get the doll from Matteus for you. Please wait here with Phace." She said quietly before starting off down the hall.
The sound of the woman's steps faded off as she moved along, meanwhile the three were left in a curious position. Haruki obviously musing over how to respond to this. He'd learned what the building was for while walking down the hall and now he was faced with an odd problem. Revon seemed to have made friends with the child who was once more leaning back against his leg. The boy had been getting better at making friends lately, but he always seemed more withdrawn and careful around them. For a brief instant the teacher had watched the boy seem as happy as when he was alone without fear of what other's thought. That was what made the situation a bit of a bother for Haru. He'd been trying to figure out a way to help the raven adjust to his new empty hole which had previously been filled by his brother. Now it seemed like he was presented with the solution. One he wasn't too fond of.
Haruki just wasn't the fatherly type. Even if he was rather protective of the boy before him.
Revon didn't get a reply to his fumbled response. Instead the woman drew all eyes to her and requested they not move. She was going to get Rainbow it seemed, so there was no longer a need to make an comment on that really. But how to explain how he ended up here? Fingers caught the hem of his jacket and curled around it as he watched the red-head a moment more before turning down to the child, who appeared to be named Phace. Though his gaze snapped back up as finally the silence was broken again.
"So you made a friend I see." It wasn't so testy as curious. Perhaps a hint of the impending doom veiled in it. Haruki had masked it well though, that strained tone in his voice. He didn't particularly like where this was going at all. If anything it left him dreading the days ahead. One child was bad enough. A toddler was bad enough. This was an infant they were talking about. The horror stories of baby food flying and 'accident's were stumbling into clarity to try and justify leaving Revon to recover through his own devices. Yet they were being countered by the voices of the past saying that he knew what it was like to be confused and alone. It made things very hard to decide, even harder to judge the situation fairly. Personal biase was more trouble than it was worth.
Revon nodded mutely in response to the question. "He... Er Phace just wanted me to hum a bit. He seemed really happy." The boy patted the small child on the head at this, his fingers digging into the teal locks momentarily before returning to his shirt hem. He'd enjoyed having the audience, a captive one sort of, but it had been fun. No one had really said his singing was good, and the boy had literally seemed to worship it in a way. It was a definite ego boost if anything. Something Revon could likely use, not that he realized it.
Happy? Yes, obviously the feeling had been mutual. Revon had been enjoying it as much as the infant. Which was what really did sort of define the answer. What better to fill a new gap than something similar to what was lost? So with a mental sigh the other side hushed down as the winning side called out triumphantly. Time to wait for the woman to get back, and as if on command the footsteps began to echo as she appeared again. Though she never made it to the door as Haruki moved to meet her.
Retrieving the doll had been no trouble at all. Matteus had handed it over without a word and gone back to his quiet brooding. A sad state, but the woman had learned that interferring didn't do much good for the boy. Thus she'd patted him on the head and given a reminder not to miss dinner before starting down toward where she'd left the pair. Though mild confusion shone on her face as the man stopped her short. "Yes..?"
Ah, how to word this in such a way that it made sense. He had to admit that such things were not his forte. 'Revon, has a twin brother." Which didn't get to the heart of the issue at all, but he had to start somewhere. "They don't get along anymore." Already, getting a bit closer to the heart of it. Likely the woman already knew where this was going. "Revon was very close to his brother before and hasn't been as happy since their fight." Both true and untrue. Revon had been able to be himself, but at the same time he did have the gap. "He hasn't looked in such peace until today and..."He trailed off looking to see if the woman understood. Her face said that she plainly did, if anything she seemed pleased with the response. "Don't get me wrong, not today." A mild drop. "We have a spare room, but I don't exactly have things for caring for a child his age at home." Oh she looked a bit more pleased again. "It would be a bit better to surprise Revon as well, I think." He actuall had an idea in mind as to the date. "Would... the 25th work? In the morning, I could come early."
It was a curious turn of events certainly, he'd come in search of one child and ended up with a second? Not only that, the parent hadn't been the one to choose. Rather it seemed as if Phace chose them both. As peculiar as that was for an infant it almost seemed to fit the boy. He was rather shrouded in mystery. He'd simply ended up there one day with that staff, only a name given before the person had gone. Phace, that was all she knew as first. Of course she'd learned his oddities with time, but she didn't have an explaination for anything else. Once more she had a mystery to question with him, though not is seemed not to matter. phace had found his perfect spot. As sad as that was for her, who had grown a bit attached to the child, it was better for the baby. He would have a defined home before long. Apparently on the twenty-fifth to be exact. She gave a brief nod, mildly contemplating who would watch the bird-like child while the man was here. Or perhaps the boy would be coming with. As long as he wasn't alone it would work well enough. "Certainly, I'll be sure to be awake. What time?"
"I'll be here at six am." He quickly replied, not returning the pleased look. That said he held out a hand, which earned him a odd look. "Revon will want Rainbow back." He quickly clarified and was given the doll when realization hit. A polite nod as the man turned to start back for the room where Revon was still waiting. "Revon, say goodbye to your friend. We still need to finish the grocery shopping. Your hot chocolate is also probably cold by now." He added recalling the cup he'd left on the front desk. Then again, some child might have snatched the glass up thinking it a treat. Who knew?
The boy frowned mildly at the suggesting, having started playing a game of tug-o-war with the younger child since his guardian had walked off. "Oh..." He turned his gaze down to the infant before giving him a forced smile. "It was nice meeting you, Phace. Be good." With that he readjusted the toddler who didn't quite seem to understand at first. Then when the bird stood up an obvious pout appeared on the infants face. The music box was leaving. That was what was going on. The red-head man was taking the music box away. A second whine of the day escaped him as if to try what had worked before, issuing the sadness at the second loss of the musical thing. No luck. The avian simply turned and flashed a tight smile before taking the doll back from his keeper and turning to go.
The jumble of words said that it was a good thing. That he couldn't ask them to stay. They weren't the masters. Sadly, such words were lost on the child. All that he felt was that there was something missing. That's all he understood. Something wasn't there, something he couldn't understand was missing. They simplified it for him in the end.
This was how it was meant to happen.
A day like any other for the pair. It was only a few days before the holiday all the hubub was about. Well more than a few days, five to be exact. The 19th of December and all through the town each mother was stirring with mighty a frown. Each was in search of that precious object their child had asked for. The one that had previously been hidden. Thus, the last few days of madness had swept the city and taken over in a storm.
It made Haruki ever so pleased he worked as a teacher rather than in a store. Not that he ever would, but all the same. Retail workers must have had to work so many extra hours these last few weeks. He could only imagine. He himself had needed to work a few extra hours lately to ensure all the paperwork was finished before the holidays. He didn't particularly like Christmas himself, but he also assumed Revon wanted a 'traditional' holiday. Which suggested that Haruki would need to be there and able to cook that day. Thus, he needed the free time. A few hours the week before didn't bother him anyway, so there really was nothing to complain about. Though as he strode past a group of screeching children he did find something he might have grumbled over.
Those flocks of barely attended munchkins could go.
Of course, that was a bit hypocritical. He did have Revon with him, the dark creature in brilliant pink. However, the raven was far better behaved than the other children. He simply clung to the pale pink doll titled 'Rainbow' and followed along. He was quiet and subdued. Not a a loud accident waiting to happen. This was something Haruki had to say he was proud of in the child. The boy behaved in a way that was far more mature than even some of the children older than him. Then again, the pink streak that ran deep was the price he seemed to pay for the obedient child. Pink hair, clothes, shoes, and even toys. Having a child who was in your care and a boy refered to as a darling 'daughter' more than one couldn't be too healthy for one's mentality. Not after a long enough time anyway.
The red-head couldn't complain though. He had chosen not to stop the child when it was proclaimed the ivory locks were to be dyed a pale shade of pink. Rather, he'd given the child a go ahead as he had when the boy chose clothing. One's appearance should be strictly one's own choice. Even if it was hard for the man to stand aside and watch as any proof that Revon was infact a boy, he had stuck by the resolution and simply nodded in silence allowing it. Such was the relationship. Both child and adult understood it well.
Although at times Revon did seem the enjoy guilting Haruki into things. But only on occaision. He never overused it to the put the aloof teacher became immune to the requests. Usually petty and harmless in nature. That was what started the event that day. One tiny little request.
Something as simple as hot chocolate could do a lot.
The pair had only been on their way to pick up some groceries, walking along the same path they would always trek. The same sights, the same shops. Nothing out of the ordinary about the day at all. A plaintive tug at his sleeve drew the man's attention to the boy at his side. The dark skinned child had paused and the obvious telltale signs of a request shown on his face. After it was assured that the adult was listening the timid child spoke up. "Could I please get a cup of cocoa?" They had only a second before passed the coffee shop, which obviously served hot chocolate as well, so the request did make sense. Though there was a moment of akward silence that the child quickly tried to fill. "R-rainbow wants some because it's cold." Ahh, there was the reason behind it. A worthy reason if Revon was a bit chilled, for certainly the plush could not feel the wind.
A faint nod was given as the response along with a 'wait here.' Then Haruki was turning to wander back the few paces to purchase the drink. Revon had always been an obedient child, one of the few things Keivlos might have done right to an extent. The twin brother had beaten his shy sibling's ego into a state of utter compliance. The boy rarely did anything against an order given. Though bit by bit that seemed to be changing. The young bird was slowly crawling back out of the shell his hellion of a brother had driven him into. Haruki would have to be blind not to see that.
Though that wasn't entirely the cause for today's mishap. Perhaps a combination of that and odd circumnstance. For as Haruki was away the child found himself in an odd situation. Neither parent nor child had bothered to look at the less than astounding building Revon had been left standing before in silence. Thus when a tawny haired child strode out of the door curiosity set in. Bi-coloured eyes met the muddy brown ones in silence. Then it was broken.
"You get ditched here too?"
A frown crossed the bird's face. Ditched? He didn't quiet understand the whole concept of it. "N-no. Haru just went to get s-some cocoa." The avian quietly replied, tugging the pink plush closer to him as if to create a greater sense of security. "He'll be back in a moment." Half true. Revon didn't ralize there had been a line in the coffee place. One the teacher would be stuck in for a time.
The child frowned at this, almost seeming upset at the notion that Revon hadn't been left there. Perhaps life had been too unfair to the boy and he simply wished for another to know and understand the wrong cast upon him. "So you've got big plans for the holidays then?" The voice was less than sugar coated, more like that of a snake baiting you closer. A bit of honey mixed with venom. A poison known as jealousy. For what child didn't wish to have a family to go home to around this time of year?
Sadly, the boy was a bit to trusting in nature and fell right for the deceitful tongue. An over exuberant nod given in response. "Yes, Haruki is going to cook and there will be presents."
Again he'd used the name. The orphan grimaced at this. It was like rubbing it in his face to keep talking about one's family. Even if the response had been prompted by a question he himself had asked. Still, he inched forward a step as if eager to continue the conversation, once more the sly voice cutting into the chill winter air. "Presents huh? Like that?" He indicated the stuffed creature that showed between the folds of pink cloth that adorned the bird's body. Ah yes, the rainbow eyed plush.
A smile came upon the boy's face at this. He did hope to get Rainbow a friend, but it wasn't a given. "I think Rainbow would like that, but I'm not sure. This is my first Christmas." The child had only a brief understanding of the holiday from the books he'd read. Unlike his keeper, he couldn't visualize how things worked simply by reading it. It had to be something he admired about the man. For Revon... seeing was understanding. Certainly after a Christmas of his own he would be able to comprehend the wonder of it.
The boy, who appeared to be around eleven, seemed rather puzzled at this. First Christmas? The boy before him could not be less than six. And seemed older than that certainly. So why on earth would the child not know Christmas? Still, the green-eyed beast held tight and confusion was soon doused with malice toward the fortunate boy. A firm smirk tugging it's way onto his face. "Ohh, well... may I see Rainbow?" Jealousy meant ruining that bit of happiness those more lucky were blessed with. He'd found one simple way to go about it.
A simple request, polite and certainly it didn't seem a threat to the bird. A polite nod was given and a final squeeze before the object in question was held out daintily to the boy. Afterall, sharing was caring. Or so people said. Revon wasn't one to be cruel and uncaring, now was he? The boy didn't like to think he was. Obvious concern did was over his face as the doll was plucked hastily from his hand rather than accepted and admired. As soon as the object was transfered the boy seemed to vanish. Though not truly, he simply darted for the door and was within the orphanage again within a moment. Which left Revon at a slight loss. Then a quick fumble as if he thought that Rainbow had simply dropped from his hands. A brief sense of denial and then a voice.
"Revon your-" The red-head never had a chance to finish as the boy quickly looked over his shoulder at the parent then after a quick rush of 'he took Rainbow' was following after past the heavy wooden doors.
Since when had getting hot chocolate been this troublesome?
The bird had obviously delayed too long in his shock. The old child had vanished from view by the time he'd shoved open the heavy door and entered the building. Instead a homey atmosphere dusted over with the official hand of business stood before him. A counter with a few cluttered pieces of paper and two doors two choose from. No one was in sight at the moment, so the child simply chose one of the wooden doors and tugged it open before darting down along the hallway head twisting to and fro in search of the child who'd snatched his friend away.
Thunk, thunk, thunk. At first the only sound was the frail bird's boots along the wooden boards of the hall. Then as if by magic he realized there was the quiet mumbling of voices. A bout of panic ran through the boy. Not one voice. Plural. Revon wasn't exactly the most social child in the history of mankind. Friendly? Yes, certainly he was friendly, but... A distinct frown crossed the now paused child's face. He didn't like being surrounded by people. He simply didn't. Groups frightened him. He'd only recently overcome the fear of being around single people, he doubted he'd handle a large gathering well, especially not without some form of security. It was at this moment he looked back in search of the tall guardian he'd been with only minutes before. The red-head was nowhere to be found.
Even worse Revon realized he didn't quite know where he was in the building anymore. He'd been in such a frantic search that he hadn't been watching where he was going. An obvious mistake, one he had made before. The recollection of the night spent with the girl who glowed slightly fluttered up into his mind briefly before he dashed it back down. This was different. It was only a building, not the forest.
Still, as anxiety set in the child began backtracking slightly, a hum escaping his lips. It was more nervous behavior than anything, a subconcious attempt to sooth his own nerves. The bird enjoyed singing, possibly a side effect of the raven genes that ran in him. It was calming to hear a familiar sound that mimicked something he adored, which was likely what allowed the boy to start making some sense out of his location. This area looked slightly familiar, perhaps a little. Then the train of thought was interrupted by an abrupt new noise. Something of a coo and a giggle merged. Maybe it was just a gurgle, but it drug the birds attention to the door it had escaped from. A brief peek to into the crack in silence, for the noise had stopped his humming to himself, proved a view at a young child on the floor. Not quite an infant, but not a toddler either.
Haruki had stepped inside shortly after Revon, quickly looking for the bird himself. Sadly, he'd been slowed by trying to keep the steaming chocolate from splashing all over his hand, thus he'd been greeted by only a door left ajar by the child in his haste. A few quick steps brought him to it when a voice stopped him.
"Can I help you, sir?" The tone was neither friendly nor hostile. Just curious and subdued with that of business as it's main trait. The woman it was attached to showed a similar quality, though the lines of worry that only a mother figure always were worn into her face. Obviously the effect of time.
"My child is here, I'm simply picking him up." Perhaps not the best of word choice for the man to use. Still, to him it was clearcut. As well, he had yet to realize the building was an orphanage, it wasn't as if he'd gone picking through the documents on the counter to check.
A veteran with odd wording, it took more than a few words to get the woman's hopes up for a child. Still, one brow arched at the statement as the brushed a few strands of hair back behind her ear. A prospective parent was not someone to look frumpy before. Even if they were a long shot. "Oh? Your child?" It seemed almost like a joke that the man would word it that way, certainly there was a catch.
A brief nod was given, and a hint of annoyance shone in the single visable eye as the man shifted his wait to face the woman more. A modest creature, worn with time, but still a touch of kick left in her obviously. "Yes, his name is Revon. He's wearing mostly pink, has pink hair, and black skin. He also has wings." Defining features really, the child was unmistakable really. "He also has one red eye and one dark gray eye." As if there needed to be further clarification. Though Haruki was known for being thorough. "He said something about someone taking his plush doll before running in here."
A look of confusion shone momentarily at the statement. Revon? She knew not any child in her care by that name, nor one with such... features. Though the finishing clarification explained it. This was actually the man's child. She had given it a bit of hope too soon obviously. This was over a doll that must have been snatched. By Matteus most likely, the boy had a bit of a problem dealing with children who had families. He'd been left alone with a promise, abandoned. The child did have a reason to be bitter, though it really was unfair to take it out on another child. "Ahh, I see. Do you know where he is?" The question obviously needed no asking, though the building was large, perhaps the red-head had an idea of it. As for the doll. Matteus would be where he always was. Upstairs at his window pouting with his prize. The child really wasn't bad, just misunderstood.
An akward silence held as bi-colored eyes met bi-colored eyes. Revon starring in confusion at the now silent creature whose posture was a mixture of sitting and spawling on the floor and in return the young boy stared right back at the mixture of brilliant pink and black. Then a tiny smile drew across the pale infants face as he waited a moment, feline ears flicking. He was waiting for the music to come back. The happy notes that had earlier been so thick in the air, if not hitched by a mixure of nervousnes. Still, the young boy wanted them back, he'd liked the noise.
Then it was broken as the bird started to step back, the momentary curiosity dismissed. Why he'd even been drawn to look still puzzled him. A delicate step back that was halted by the mixture of a whine and baby talk that escaped the young thing on the floor. A mixed emotion appearing on the older boy's face as he let his head drop a bit closer to define the meaning. Why did the young child wish him to stay? For certainly that was it? "Are you lonely?"
Lonely wasn't quite the word to use. Nor was the child meaning to ask for the dark bird to stay. It was more of a cry of despair that had been issued from the young feline than a cry for the boy to stay. Some bit of him chided that he'd no right to request anything of the other boy. Even if it did not register in the young mind the rule ran true in Phace's sad little call. It was simple sadness over the future lack of continuation rather than a reqest. Nothing demanding was meant by it. Thus no internal law was broken in the timid calling.
It was simply misread.
The young bird inched forward into the once more silent room watching the curious child. His eyes reminded him of his own, and yet his brother's as well. A slight frown crossed the raven's face at the recollection of his twin brother. Then sadness took over and he let his head droop slightly. Keivlos would still hate him wouldn't he? His brother was not so forgiving. As much as Revon attempted to hide it he still wished more than anything to reconcile with his brother. He just... he didn't know how.
A mild gurgle, this more gleeful escaped the child this time. A smimle lighting up the infant's face as he pricked his ears forward and reached up a hand clumsily at the bird. It was staying, the music thing was staying. This was a cause for rejoice, which was what he attempted. Rejoice also meant singing, though that was something out of the young boy's power. Still, perhaps the music box would stop starring at it's feet and begin again?
Revon glanced up as the child seemed to giggle, starring in confusion. It didn't make sense to the boy why this child was so eager to have him there. It seemed to him it could only be loneliness, although the room itself looked as if it belonged to more than one child. It was just the single boy there for the moment. Still, it was a puzzle... One he should try to understand.
A few akward steps brought him closer to the feline, his wings tugging closer to him instinctively as a bout of shyness attempted to overcome him. It was only an infant, nothing to be bashful around. They didn't understand half of anything anyway. Perhaps the child was just eager to play on a whim, that might have been it. A dark hand, half covered by the overwhelmingly puffy sleeve of his jacket reached out as he crouched down to the boy's level. Rather then snagging his fingers though, the child caught the pink fabric in a tiny fist and gave it a few weak tugs before another giggle escaped the baby. A baffled smile made it's way along the avian's face as he watched the child. He hadn't realized earlier, but the young boy was an interesting sight.
Pale white clothing dashed with dark soot coated points. A style which Revon himself found intricate and hard to comprehend. He almost envied it, wishing he might have had an outfit similar for his own. The ears and tail seemed less astounding to him. He'd seen more than a few people with them, but the marking. He'd not seen something such as that before, and his free hand cautiously reached out before running a finger over it carefully. It wasn't pain, a permanent tattoo. It reminded him a bit of a butterfly in a way. A peculiar thing to see on someone's cheek, and below the pale silver hued eye it seemed so out of place. Though perhaps what could be considered more puzzling than the rest was what lay atop the strips of cloth which pooled around the child from it's shirt. A staff about as tall as the boy. On time of it emitted a mist in an almost orblike sphere before another section of metal topped it. The thing was simple, as simple as the child's outfit. Yet it drew your eye as curious when put next to the rather unique looking boy. Alone they were an oddity, together they seemed a bit of a mystery. It certainly didn't help that the child was hard to understand.
Phace stared mutely, his silver eye shutting as one finger drew near and softly traced over his skin. It was a shame. No more music it would seem. Still as the hand drew back the eye opened again before a definite blink as if to adjust them both. Another akward moment of silence before he got another repsonse. This time it was the bird shifting his weight so that he was now sitting as well. If one could call the feline's posture sitting. Still, he released the boy's sleeve to use his arms to try to shove himself up and only succeeded in switching his posture with a flop in the opposite direction. It did earn the infant a minute laugh that was muffled by the bird's hand. Obviously he found it would be rude to laugh openly, but it must have been a curious sight?
After a moment Revon quieted and reached out to help the child sit up, using one of his own legs as a prop for the younger boy. It worked like a charm and the infant seemed pleased again, placing his hand on his own legs as he leaned back and peered up as if waiting. Waiting for what? "You're silly... you know that?" He said it quietly before shoving a few pale strands of hair from his face. "Do you want to play? For me to entertain you?" Revon wasn't good at much. He just... he liked to dance a bit, and sing. He'd mostly begun to sing in order to please his brother, to show the other twin he was useful for something. Not that it had worked. If anything the odd habit had enraged Keivlos further, even if other's enjoyed it. He admitted that now he even enjoyed it and continued for his own devices. Something that was a bit heartwarming, not so much as approval ight have been... but good enough. "If that's really what you want." He was really only talking to himself, expecting no reply from the seemingly wordless child. Oh, he made noise, hejust didn't speak. Not clearly anyhow. The bird knew better than to expect a real response from him.
So perhaps that was why when he began humming again quietly it was so shocking to see the infant close it's eyes and lean back. Ears still at attention to catch each note, though everything else was simply relaxed against his leg. Only the occaisional flick of the cats tail suggested he was still awake. Though as the bird quieted thinking perhaps the boy was tired both eyes opened and glanced back up questioningly. Obviously he wasn't allowed to stop? So once more he began humming one of the happy little tunes he often mimicked in his game and the moment was restored. A blissful little quiet in it's own way.
"I believe he went through this door." The red-head indicated the one behind him for the woman at the question. A brief nod and she started for it, walking around the man who in turn followed.
"Do you have any idea where he might have gone?" The voice was as always coated in a business woman's guise as she casually peered over her shoulder. He obviously didn't know the way either with the blank look at followed. Certainly not. Nothing would be so easy, and to make matters worse Matteus would have gone the opposite way. Well she'd retrieve the possession later. For now they simply needed to find this Revon. Who for all she knew, could have been made up. Had she not seen prospective parents in the past claim something was lost in the building to wander in with no previous promises. So even if a child was not to their liking they would... perhaps feel less guilt for leaving? For certainly they had only come to find what they lost, not to find something new. Perhaps the odd winged child did not exist. Though as they rounded a corner an odd tune graced her ears.
Haruki knew the sound too well as it too reached him. An amused smile momentarily found it's way onto his face. So predictable, the child was so predictable. Humming a tune while hunting for his doll. What could be more like him? Though as that thought slipped from his mind the man quickly realized what he had done. Seconds later the once more bland expression took over his face and a suspicious glance was granted to the woman, testing if she'd seen the smile. The knowing look said she had and the red-head felt a momentary wave of embarrassment as his lack of self control before he quickly spoke to draw the attention back to the tune. "That would be Revon." He quickly said before starting down a hall toward the noise. He reached it before long and was rather shocked at what he saw. Rather than Revon hunting for his doll... the child was lounging on the floor starring down at a teal haired infant. The infant seemed to be more asleep than awake, a blissful smile on it's face as it leaned against one of the brilliant pink pantlegs. What an absolutely odd sight to behold.
It took a moment for Revon to realize he was being watched, though when he did the song abruptly cut off and his eyes switched up to his guardian. It was at this moment that he recalled why he'd come in he first place and he felt a bit of shame creep upon him. He'd been a bit selfish hadn't he. "Ah... Haru..." He didn't quiet know what to say as a woman he had not met before also appeared in the door frame. "I... I was just." He pursed his lips before looking down to the child, who was once more at attention the bi-coloured eyes once more upon him.
The boy had stopped again. No more music once more. Phace had stared silently a moment before his attention turned to the door. Some red-head and the woman who was always around. She often took care of him, sometimes humming as well since he enjoyed it. Which only brought a new thought to mind. Two people to sing. The very idea caused a joyful noise to escape the infant as he leaned forward to tug the staff he'd left sitting a moment closer. It should hear too.
This really did raise a brow. So the child did exist. Well that made some sense, not what really puzzled the woman was that he'd learned so quickly just what would sooth that boy so quickly. Phace, she had learned, enjoyed nothing more than music. Not any music though, something sung by people. Aside from that it didn't matter. She'd tried a tape of lullabies before, but had only succeeded in causing an endless cry that woke up a few other children. She'd never allowed such music near the boy since. Still, she didn't tell everyone that and had never seen the child before. He couldn't have been more than nine, so it was rather shocking to think he'd figured it out so quickly. Impressive really. What a shame for face they weren't here for a child.
A quiet cough brought attention to her as she graced them both with a practiced smile. "I'll go get the doll from Matteus for you. Please wait here with Phace." She said quietly before starting off down the hall.
The sound of the woman's steps faded off as she moved along, meanwhile the three were left in a curious position. Haruki obviously musing over how to respond to this. He'd learned what the building was for while walking down the hall and now he was faced with an odd problem. Revon seemed to have made friends with the child who was once more leaning back against his leg. The boy had been getting better at making friends lately, but he always seemed more withdrawn and careful around them. For a brief instant the teacher had watched the boy seem as happy as when he was alone without fear of what other's thought. That was what made the situation a bit of a bother for Haru. He'd been trying to figure out a way to help the raven adjust to his new empty hole which had previously been filled by his brother. Now it seemed like he was presented with the solution. One he wasn't too fond of.
Haruki just wasn't the fatherly type. Even if he was rather protective of the boy before him.
Revon didn't get a reply to his fumbled response. Instead the woman drew all eyes to her and requested they not move. She was going to get Rainbow it seemed, so there was no longer a need to make an comment on that really. But how to explain how he ended up here? Fingers caught the hem of his jacket and curled around it as he watched the red-head a moment more before turning down to the child, who appeared to be named Phace. Though his gaze snapped back up as finally the silence was broken again.
"So you made a friend I see." It wasn't so testy as curious. Perhaps a hint of the impending doom veiled in it. Haruki had masked it well though, that strained tone in his voice. He didn't particularly like where this was going at all. If anything it left him dreading the days ahead. One child was bad enough. A toddler was bad enough. This was an infant they were talking about. The horror stories of baby food flying and 'accident's were stumbling into clarity to try and justify leaving Revon to recover through his own devices. Yet they were being countered by the voices of the past saying that he knew what it was like to be confused and alone. It made things very hard to decide, even harder to judge the situation fairly. Personal biase was more trouble than it was worth.
Revon nodded mutely in response to the question. "He... Er Phace just wanted me to hum a bit. He seemed really happy." The boy patted the small child on the head at this, his fingers digging into the teal locks momentarily before returning to his shirt hem. He'd enjoyed having the audience, a captive one sort of, but it had been fun. No one had really said his singing was good, and the boy had literally seemed to worship it in a way. It was a definite ego boost if anything. Something Revon could likely use, not that he realized it.
Happy? Yes, obviously the feeling had been mutual. Revon had been enjoying it as much as the infant. Which was what really did sort of define the answer. What better to fill a new gap than something similar to what was lost? So with a mental sigh the other side hushed down as the winning side called out triumphantly. Time to wait for the woman to get back, and as if on command the footsteps began to echo as she appeared again. Though she never made it to the door as Haruki moved to meet her.
Retrieving the doll had been no trouble at all. Matteus had handed it over without a word and gone back to his quiet brooding. A sad state, but the woman had learned that interferring didn't do much good for the boy. Thus she'd patted him on the head and given a reminder not to miss dinner before starting down toward where she'd left the pair. Though mild confusion shone on her face as the man stopped her short. "Yes..?"
Ah, how to word this in such a way that it made sense. He had to admit that such things were not his forte. 'Revon, has a twin brother." Which didn't get to the heart of the issue at all, but he had to start somewhere. "They don't get along anymore." Already, getting a bit closer to the heart of it. Likely the woman already knew where this was going. "Revon was very close to his brother before and hasn't been as happy since their fight." Both true and untrue. Revon had been able to be himself, but at the same time he did have the gap. "He hasn't looked in such peace until today and..."He trailed off looking to see if the woman understood. Her face said that she plainly did, if anything she seemed pleased with the response. "Don't get me wrong, not today." A mild drop. "We have a spare room, but I don't exactly have things for caring for a child his age at home." Oh she looked a bit more pleased again. "It would be a bit better to surprise Revon as well, I think." He actuall had an idea in mind as to the date. "Would... the 25th work? In the morning, I could come early."
It was a curious turn of events certainly, he'd come in search of one child and ended up with a second? Not only that, the parent hadn't been the one to choose. Rather it seemed as if Phace chose them both. As peculiar as that was for an infant it almost seemed to fit the boy. He was rather shrouded in mystery. He'd simply ended up there one day with that staff, only a name given before the person had gone. Phace, that was all she knew as first. Of course she'd learned his oddities with time, but she didn't have an explaination for anything else. Once more she had a mystery to question with him, though not is seemed not to matter. phace had found his perfect spot. As sad as that was for her, who had grown a bit attached to the child, it was better for the baby. He would have a defined home before long. Apparently on the twenty-fifth to be exact. She gave a brief nod, mildly contemplating who would watch the bird-like child while the man was here. Or perhaps the boy would be coming with. As long as he wasn't alone it would work well enough. "Certainly, I'll be sure to be awake. What time?"
"I'll be here at six am." He quickly replied, not returning the pleased look. That said he held out a hand, which earned him a odd look. "Revon will want Rainbow back." He quickly clarified and was given the doll when realization hit. A polite nod as the man turned to start back for the room where Revon was still waiting. "Revon, say goodbye to your friend. We still need to finish the grocery shopping. Your hot chocolate is also probably cold by now." He added recalling the cup he'd left on the front desk. Then again, some child might have snatched the glass up thinking it a treat. Who knew?
The boy frowned mildly at the suggesting, having started playing a game of tug-o-war with the younger child since his guardian had walked off. "Oh..." He turned his gaze down to the infant before giving him a forced smile. "It was nice meeting you, Phace. Be good." With that he readjusted the toddler who didn't quite seem to understand at first. Then when the bird stood up an obvious pout appeared on the infants face. The music box was leaving. That was what was going on. The red-head man was taking the music box away. A second whine of the day escaped him as if to try what had worked before, issuing the sadness at the second loss of the musical thing. No luck. The avian simply turned and flashed a tight smile before taking the doll back from his keeper and turning to go.
The jumble of words said that it was a good thing. That he couldn't ask them to stay. They weren't the masters. Sadly, such words were lost on the child. All that he felt was that there was something missing. That's all he understood. Something wasn't there, something he couldn't understand was missing. They simplified it for him in the end.
This was how it was meant to happen.
