∞ 100: Silent night [action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[Backdated to the late evening of December 24.

He is not surprised to find it snowing when he returns to Luceti and climbs out of the tunnels. The snow had proven to be irritating while he was outside of the barrier, and he is looking forward to getting inside before heavier snow begins falling.

He walks with a slight limp and stops once in awhile on the snow-covered streets, looking at the pale lights decorating various houses as he catches his breath. In the artificial light, the dark bruise across his left cheekbone may be visible.

Despite his frequent pauses in the snow, he walks with purpose. He'd like to sleep in his own bed tonight.]

Comments

[wise_maiden]

It's better to go to bed clean and comfortable, if it can be managed. [And she knows that he's been able to in other conditions. The aftermath of that jungle draft comes to mind, as well as her recent experience with the mines.] There are clean towels already in there.

[chikaidestroyer]

[He takes another sip of his tea.] Then it's just a matter of getting to the shower. [He eyes his new slippers, wondering if he should take them into the bathroom at all.] Will these soak up water?

[wise_maiden]

There should be a protective layer in there that would keep them from soaking right through. [Meant to be practical and comfortable. As long as he doesn't wear them right up to the shower door, it shouldn't be a problem anyway.]

[chikaidestroyer]

Good to know. [He nods contemplatively, shutting his eyes as he focuses on finishing his tea. He should try to get standing as soon as he could so he wouldn't be tempted to fall asleep.]

[wise_maiden]

[Raine nods and waits patiently, but watching to make sure he doesn't drift off too much again.

She might be able to rest easier herself, once all is said and done.

And then gently, once he seems to be finished:]

Ready, Albert?

[chikaidestroyer]

[Albert sets down his tea cup and shifts on the couch, setting his feet on the ground and pushing himself, slowly but surely, back up. He holds on to the arm of the couch as he ensures that his knees won't buckle after being so tense and then being relaxed by Raine's spells.]

I should be fine.

[wise_maiden]

Just try not to exert yourself. Is there anything else you'd like me to get ready while you're in there? [Though she still intends to assist him down the hall, watchful of that ankle.]

[chikaidestroyer]

[He shakes his head, taking a few small steps around the coffee table and holding on to the armchair as he adjusts to standing and walking again.]

I should be fine. [He repeats. It takes him a moment to realize he's said the same thing, so he comments on something else.] ...My things. They should be brought back to my room.

[wise_maiden]

I'll take care of it.

[The coat is already hanging to dry, the other wet clothes can be deposited in the hamper pile. If he's left anything else by the door, it would be checked for and returned to his room.

His repetition is noted, and she's still watching carefully.]

It really is... good to have you back.

[chikaidestroyer]

[He was actually referring to the book and writing utensil he had left on the table, but his wording was quite vague.]

Hah... A long two weeks.

[wise_maiden]

[Those items will likely be realized and set away as well, once he's well on his way to his shower.]

Too long.

[She had missed him. There were times when the house had almost felt too empty.]

Let us hope they've had their fill with you for a while.

[chikaidestroyer]

[Albert carefully makes his way over towards the hallway, a hand on the wall to help with his twisted ankle.]

...Let's not try counting the days concerning that. [He wouldn't be surprised if he was called upon in another month.]