This was new.

This was definitely new!

Her fingers clutched tighter to Cypher's sleeve as they reached the bottom of the hill. It had been a marvel from afar, but up close...! The woman's senses were assaulted from all directions. The collective, chaotic hum of voices and music filled her ears. Brightly colored banners and flashing lights and movement drew her eyes left and right. There was no end of things to see! And the smells... Oh, the smells! The thick, buttery scent of popcorn, the sweet aroma of warmed sugar, and lets not forget the sinfully strong deliciousness of everything deep fried.

Migisi pressed her lips together tightly, unsure of what emotion she was feeling. Curiosity and fascination, mostly, yet she remained where she was, still holding onto Cypher. Should she go ahead? Was it safe? She was anxious, yet as she turned to look up at him there was little sign of any real fear in her wide, questioning eyes.

Another space, another time..., 0 thinks while lying atop a lonesome hill. I might see this place as it is on other days. The human's eyes roll away from the sky to the city's park, where the funfair has finally finished setting up--and already the people are pouring in!

The young adult has been waiting for the fair to open. In the back of its mind, it has been hoping only for a traveling circus. The rest of the amusements? Not so much.

Despite its apparently long wait, it hesitates in moving from its spot. It is comfortable here, content just watching from a distance, imagining what it must be like inside the fairgrounds. But boredom and curiosity tugs at its strings, urging it to stand, to move about the park.

Yet she does not move--not until a group decides to climb the hill to gaze on at the funfair, chattering loudly to one another. The human closes its eyes, trying to remain unseen, trying to ignore. The former appears to work, but in the latter it has less success. Their excited voices, talking about the different attractions they hope to find, only manage to sputter its curiosity like a popping flame.

When they finally leave to apparently join their families, it sits up sharply, watching them go. Only children, they are. It smiles slightly at seeing their buoyancy amongst the crowd, almost as if they are bobbing up-and-down, one minute floating above the rest, the next hidden like others.

Shaking its head, the human slowly stands, before finally moving in the same direction as the crowd. Suddenly, though, it stops, frowning, right at the hill's foot, just a few steps away from the thickest part of the crowd. Too many people, it feels like, getting nervous, also wondering about the costs--it does not have anything with it, nor does it know how to get something at this precise moment in time.

Turning around, it hurries to look for the back way in. There has to be another way. If not, it might just resort to jumping the fence or breaking through it or...something.

Silly thing...it will most likely have to return to the front entrance and go through that way anyhow; it is probably making a big deal out of nothing, too.

It did not take long for her to regain her confidence and sense of independence. As her attention fell back to the roaring amusement around them, Cypher could feel her grasp on his arm loosen. The fabric fell back into place as she untangled her fingers and began to briskly start to wander. Awestruck eyes wide and glittering like polished sapphires, burning brightly beneath her ebony feathered hair as she gazed around smiling. Giddy and full of bliss.

In moments like this, he could not help but smile himself - though his grin was not as noticeable or as wide as her's. He found her innocence to be intriguing, often finding himself questioning what the world must be like through her eyes. He had seen her stumble as she first learned to try to walk, and had to teach her to do even the most simple tasks...Like teaching a child everything they would need to know for the rest of life but needing them to understand it within a few days...And there was much she knew so little about. Introducing the jackdaw to humanity surely had been stressful and frustrating for them both but even with her tantrums, she was eager to learn. It was times like this are what made it worth it. Seeing her wander about on her own with happiness illuminating off of her was a victory.

He stood tall and proud as he kept his eyes locked on her. Even as a bird, he had been protective of her but even more so now. Her ignorance on the world often led her to get into more trouble than before, often misinterpreting other's actions or not understanding the proper procedures of certain ways of life. He felt his smile begin to fade as her image slowly started to disappear in the sea of bodies. Heart skipped a bit as he lost sight of her for a second, only easing when she reappeared.

He froze in a half-step as he heard a man call out to her, "Miss?...Wait, miss!" His gaze instantly snapping to the side to investigate who was addressing her. Even in the most peaceful of situations, he always grew wary of other's beckoning her. A man stood behind the ticket booth waving his hands while yelling in Migisi's direction. He rose his hand to his face, attempting to hiding the embarrassing look that was trying to push through. He had become to lost in his thoughts that even he forgot to pay for their admission.

"My apologies, sir," his head was turned, still scanning the ground for the woman while he spoke on her behalf. "She is....different...8£, right? 4£ each?" Standing dumbfound with his wallet open, his heart began to race. Migisi's independence was beginning to lead her farther from him than he liked.

"Yes, sir. And would you like-" the man's sentence was cut short as Cypher tossed a few bills his way before darting off to search for the woman. Accidentally paying a tad more than he should but not willing to stay behind to collect the change. Panicking, he carefully started to push his way through the crowd. Sliding his slender frame between people as he began to yell for her, "Migs...Migs!" He remembered seeing her heading towards the food stalls. Quickly, he followed the alluring aroma of grilling meats and deep fried delights. Scanning the crowd as he pushed forward.

"Migisi, darling?" a few more desperate cries were drowned out by laughter and echoing music. Cypher found himself caught in the center of the dinning area. People swarmed the tents lined in a row. Filling their arms with grease coated snacks and devouring golden dough as they shuffled away towards the tables. Thick smoke lingered above the crowd from the sizzling grills as burgers and hot dogs were flipped. His stomach churned at the mix-matched smells. Sweet and butter one moment, salty and smokey the next. The delicious aromas quickly lost their savory scents as anxiety began to overtake him.

Pacing back and forth, Cypher shoved his hands into his pockets. Shivering fingers thrumming heavily on the metal pocket watch like always. A heavy sigh erupted from his paling lips as he hurried around the cafeteria. Circling the tables and casting looks downs the rows of people. Eyes scanning the bustling bodies for the one figure that he was sure would stick out to him but his panicking search was proving to be fruitless. Groaning, he stopped to close his eyes and take a few deep breathes, trying to think.

Opening them again, he did the first thing that came to mind: get to higher ground. Even if he could not see her among the ocean of heads, maybe she would at least recognize him. He removed his hands from his pockets to relieve pressure from his thighs. Quickening his pace as he vaulted onto a near by table. A group of young teenagers who had been sitting at the opposite end groaned while snarling up at him. Their cups tilted from the tabletop's vibration; one drink had been completely knocked over. Dark, sugary soda coated the plastic table.. The cardboard bottom of one of the boys' nacho containers deteriorated as the soft drink was soaked into its fibers, turning the bottom layer of chips and cheese soggy.

Cypher ignored their insulting spats. Too occupied with reuniting with his companion to take any notice as they rose from their seats. His tall figure towered over everyone. A few passerbys gave him strange looks but he remained where he was. Calling out her name one again, "Where the bloody hell are you, Migs...?!"

"Piss off!" The two boys quickly hurried their girlfriends away apologizing for the "crazy man" who had disrupted their dinner. One of the young hooligans had the nerve to shout a few more vulgar things towards him upon which Cypher quickly scoffed back, "She was not going to shag you anyway, lad."

The table was now deserted other leaving him to his search as he trotted about the table top. A few spectators had gathered before him. Some drawn by the shouts and others by pure curiosity as if they were expecting him to lecture the world like some prophet. A mother pushed her child away as the rest of the group began to disperse. A handful bored that no fight broke out; the others were weirded out by his unruly behavior.

His vision of the grounds slowly improved as the people cleared. In the distance, a shorter woman stood out on the lines. Thumping heart skipped a beat as he caught sight of her. Her dark hair blowing faintly around her rounded face in the breeze. Innocently gawking at him with an amused smirk. Again, without thinking, he leaped from the table and stumbled as he landed. Arms flailing a bit as he regained his balance before forcing his way over to her. Taking a few seconds to catch his breath, he relaxed slightly. Feeling more at ease with her beside him again.

"There you are, Migs," Gently, he placed his hands upon her shoulders. Firmly holding her in place as his blue eyes locked onto her. "You need to listen and stay close me, okay? This place is very big with a lot of people - could easily get lost." He placed one of his hands around her's. Fingers grasping around it before he quickly pulled it away as he touched something sticky. Brows rose as he pulled her hand before him and examined it. The translucent remains of sugary pink threads dangled from her soft skin. Rolling his eyes, he dug his handkerchief out from his jacket pocket and began to clean her off. "Hungry, huh? How about we grab something to eat and then take a look around?"

People rushed by gazing over at the unusual pair as they passed. Talking amongst themselves as they hurried away. Cypher glanced at them from the corner of his eye. Frowning as he overheard a bit of their mockery and gossip. Oh how he had grown to hate gossip...Onlookers never knew anything, so what gave them the right to determine the details of the situation?

His thoughts were quickly lost as he felt a force pull away from him. Eyes returned forward to see Migisi pulling away. Huffing a bit as she yanked the handkerchief from him and proceeded to clean herself off before throwing it back at him. His displeasing frown only pulled down deeper as she defensively turned away from him. Rolling his eyes with a sigh, he folded the cloth up and returned it to its rightful place in his jacket pocket. Though it was not long before her face lit up again.

"...Eat..." the frown softened a bit as she spoke. "Alright, darling." Digging into his back pocket, he retrieved his wallet. Handing her a few small bills, he nodded towards the stalls. "Get whatever you like, my dear. Dinner is on me." His arms returned to his sides as he waited. This time allowing her to lead.

He said nothing as he waited for her to make the connections on her own. Watching intently - like a teacher to a student - as she glanced back and forth from the distance stalls and the £ he had placed in her hand. Having lived with the ill-informed woman for so long, patience had become a more predominate trait within the brunette. She had always been an independent personality and even after being transformed into human, she still desired her freedom. Always eager to try new things to the point of becoming frustrated with herself if she could not grasp it, often resulting in some sort of tantrum. He had learned to wait quietly, having had her hit him or throw something at him when he tried to interfere, until she gave him a signal to help.

That is what he did now. Just waited. Standing silently beside her as she became lost within her own thoughts. Eventually, her eyes lit with realization and she took off. Impolitely shoving her way towards the front of the line. Cypher took a half step behind her. His arm was partly raised before him; his hand grabbed at air as if he was trying to pull her back in order to remind her of manners but his reaction was far too late. By the time he palm was filled with nothingness, the woman was already "conversing" with the other customers. His body stiffened as he allowed his arm to drape back to his side, watching from afar to ensure she was not causing too much of a stir. However, it seemed as if they did not mind her unusual behavior.

He let out a sigh of relief as he stumbled backward. Collapsing onto the bench of the picnic table behind him, Cypher reclined back. His long legs stretching before him as he crossed his ankles; one foot resting upon the other. His elbows supported his back as he placed them on the table top. His eyes remained on Migisi. Watching over her in case trouble arose from misunderstandings. It happened a lot...He had come to expect it but so far, it seemed as if everything was running smoothly for her.

As he waited for her to return, taking in the few brief moments alone. The air was thick with smoke and grease yet despite the appetizing scents all around him, his stomach never growled. Nor did his mouth water. This food was too gut-wrenching for him and he never had much of a liking for sweets. Though as his eyes wandered...He had to admit...The smooth, creamy cheese on the nachos the man at the opposing table was devouring did look delectable... Immediately, his gaze jumped back towards Migisi who was now trying to order. Eyes straining as he tried to make out what she was pointing to. "Better be bloody nachos..."

Thoughts and eyes wandered around, not particularly focusing on anything. Just taking in the sights, sounds, and smells...Working with AoM had proven to become tiresome over the years. Practically making him their "go to" workhorse for most missions as of recent. Days away from the office or not being out of town had become rare. So he sat there savoring the freedom from responsibility. Until foot quickening footsteps ran up on him...

Still in his mindless trance, he glanced over to see Migisi collapse into the seat beside him firmly holding a cone of candy floss in her hands. The soft, fluffy treat stood out in the growing darkness of the evening. Its bright pink color was distinct against the backlighting of the multicolored lanterns hanging from streamers all around them. Watching her tug away at the thread and melting away on her tongue, he groaned Well...damn... Pure sugar snack was not an appetizing sight to the scrawny man. He wished for something with a little more substance. Nonetheless, he kept quiet. Not truly wanting anything the fair has to offer to eat. Silently deciding to wait till the pair returned home to indulge in a light meal.

Migisi sat quietly to his side. Grinning up at him in between her mouthfuls of cotton candy with occasional sounds of pleasure. He shot her a smile back before bringing his hand to his chin, rubbing it curiously. Peach fuzz was beginning to sprout through the skin but he ignored it; taking a mental note to shave in the morning. Instead, he quickly turned his attention back to the woman. Surely having sat so still was bound to annoy her if he did not address her and continue to keep her entertained.

Clearing his throat, he broke the silence, "So what next, my dear? Shall we stroll around for awhile? Or do you want to ride something? Maybe play a few of the games out there, hm?" A stray finger pointed off towards the distance. Hoping from one section of the fairground to the other as he tried to instruct her on where everything was. Most of the rides were located in the far fields; hidden behind the lines of tents and stalls that laid between the dining area and the clearing. The only thing visible above the roofs was the ferris wheel.

The enduring silence returned as the abnormal couple stared one another down. Her hazy stare fixed on his indifferent gaze. He truly did not expect her to answer, but he hoped for some sort of acknowledgement of his words. A smile. A mimicked word. Anything to show she had some sort of understanding but as the seconds ticked, he received very little in return. Perhaps he said too much or spoke too quickly - making her lost within his string of sentences. His brows knitted as he straightened his posture, still looking at her. Eventually, she gave him a hesitant nod.

"Well then," leaping to his feet, Cypher spun in place as he examined their surroundings more intently. Having taken in little of the environment while previously letting his mind wander.

The fair was set up like a concave triangle. The tip of the triangle housed the entrance with the food court before sprouting rows of brightly lit stalls down its angled sides before opening to the field of rides. Lined with small shops filled with novelty knickknacks from merchants, local artists' creations, and game booths. Children gathered around the tables tossing colorful rings over bottles or trying to knock down cardboard cutouts with heavy balls. Happily prancing beside their parents' sides with arms full of stuffed animals and other goodies. A little girl ran up towards her father, calling out to him between her laughs as he reached down and scooped her up. Placing her high upon his shoulders as she presented the frilly unicorn toy she had won and praised her for her accuracy.

The sight brought a bittersweet smile to the young man's face. There was something alluring about the scene but yet so distance and cold...Turning away, he swallowed down whatever melancholic feelings and thoughts that were trying to rise within him. Focusing his attention back on Migisi who still sat quietly behind him, slowly turning the candy floss in her hands with a sense of boredom. His lips puffed while he thought before settling on them just strolling down the stalls until something stood out as entertaining to her. Holding his hand out to her, he politely offered to help her out of her seat, "Come, darling."

With his hand already hovering in the air, Cypher motioned for her to follow as he began to trudge down one of the alleys. The sun had all but faded now from the sky. Stars began to poke their way out like twinkling flowers blossoming heaven's garden. The pale moon rose above the nightlife as the bright sun vanished completely. Yet despite the darkness of the sky, the fair grounds kept their charming glow. Colored lights flashed on strands that ran around poles and across the fronts of the booths. Their hues mixed with the soft shine of the lamps that dangled inside of each stall, creating a whimsical atmosphere around the trotting spectators. It was as if the urban backdrop of Manchester had been replaced with a magical wonderland of amusement.

Cypher glanced from side to side. Quietly examining each stall to see if there was something that would captivate the woman's attention. He shook his head as he disapproved of the raffles and silent auctions that were set up. While some of the baskets held promising prizes, the lack of noises and movement would bore her. He would occasionally stop outside a few of the shopping booths. Eyes quickly scanning for anything that might be appealing to her but then would quickly hurry her along; not desiring to spend more money than he had to for the night and dreaded her finding something she liked, knowing there he would have no way to talk her out of it.

After passing the merchandise, they reached a section of the carnival that was filled with games mostly designed for younger children: a bean bag toss, a novelty fishing game, a milk bottle knock down game, ring toss, and other easy to play activities. All simple and even with chance, all resulted with some sort of reward. Surely, the women could find something here to entertain herself. Flashing her a smile with a wink, Cypher slipped away towards the ticket booth stationed in the center of the festivities. Giving the man a few bills, he received a handful of red tickets in exchange. The strains of paper dangled from his hands as he neatly folded them together before handing them to her. "Go on, darling. Pick whatever you would like. Perhaps we can rid something a bit later."

The blasé brunette stood unaffected by the innocent chaos that exploded. The corner of his lip twitched until it pulled itself upward, forming a half smile across his melancholic mien. Only being surprised by the sudden grasp that tightened around his arm. Glancing down towards the source, Cypher found Migisi pulling herself closer to his side. Excitement was replaced with fear as she tangled her hands into his sleeve. His eyes traced her gaze to discover the reasoning behind her sudden change in attitude.

Not too far from them, a family and group of on lookers were celebrating the girl's victory. The vendor pulled a large, floppy dog from the collection of stuffed animals attached to the wall. The youth eagerly pulled the toy from him and held tightly to it. Jumping up and down with glee as she shouted happily. Her mother patted her on the shoulder before leading her off farther down the row of booths. As the commotion died, Migisi's grip loosened on him. Gawking up at him, she stood in shallow dismay.

"Tis alright, darling," his deep voice tried to sooth her as he gently placed his hand upon her arm. Grabbing her in return and pulling her closer to the booth. His handsome features shadowed by his fedora as the stall's bright lights tried to light up his face.

"Step right on up, sir! Win a prize for the lovely lady!" The man behind the counter playfully coaxed them closer. Dancing merrily on his feet as he pointed towards the bewildered woman beside the still stern man. "Betcha like a cuddly little friend eh, dearie?"

Cypher's brow rose at the older man's childish antics. Not quite sure on how to interrupt his sales pitch, but he pushed aside the strangeness as he turned towards the woman. Hoping his attentiveness would keep her focus on him, "Watch careful, my dear."

Ripping a ticket from the roll of paper, he handed it to vendor. The colorfully dressed owner spun around and grabbed three arts from the table behind him. Passing them to Cypher before stepping aside. Cypher once again glanced at Migisi; his eyes motioning her to pay close attention to what he was doing. He fumbled with one of the darts. Twiddling it in his fingers of his left hand as he firmly grabbed it. Stepping back, his slender figure pulled back. Craning his back as his arm rose behind his head until he threw the dart with one swift movement. Pop! One yellow balloon was penetrated with the dart. Then turned back to her, holding his palm out and presenting the other two to her.

Cypher's eyes narrowed slightly as the carnie continued to sweet talk to the girl. Surely, it was nothing more than a marketing scheme. Talk fast and talk somewhat pretty to get them to stay and spend more money. Harmless at most but there was still something about other's addressing the young woman with pet names like him that aggravated him. His igniting glance went unnoticed, however. The vendor too preoccupied by avoiding upsetting Migisi more. Watching as the colorful man stumbled back with his hands up in defense as the woman stared him down made the brunette chuckle. He had become quite amused with her spunky attitude with time; even as a jackdaw, her attempted aggressiveness came off to be somewhat comical at times.

Standing with his arms crossed, he lifted his hand to his chin. His trademarked smirk hidden behind clenched fingers. He kept quiet in order to not disturb her as she concentrated on her task of destroying one of the balloons. Brows scrunched together in disapproval at her mirrored stance. Her thick fingers were formed wrongly around the dart; too far apart and not positioned correctly to make it soar properly. Her legs were spread at least but too awkwardly to give her the needed balance.

"Come here, darling," dropping his hand and uncovering his lips, Cypher motioned with his head for her to stand closer to him as he slipped his right arm around her waist. Pulling her closer, he placed her back against his abdomen. Her head brushing against his chest as he towered over her, pulling gently at her legs to get to spread them a bit more and balance her weight. "Like this, my dear," keeping his sentences short and simple, he took the dart from her right hand and placed it in his left. Once again twisting it between his lengthy fingers as he leveled the dart between his thumb and index finger. Once again motioning to it with his head, "See? Now, my dear, you try."

He passed it back to her. Still holding it correctly in his hand, he waited for her to retrieve it position her own fingers. Then placed his hand upon her wrist, pushing back as he lowered his head to her level in order to help aim the dart from her point of view. "Keep it steady...Now...Throw!" He suddenly pulled her arm forward with a swift motion as he had done...And waited for her to let go.

Pop! the familiar sound went unnoticed to the man, but he high pitched noise that followed it did catch his attention. Without warning, the woman he held to him spun herself loose from his grasp. Her diminutive hand slipped into his. Their fingers seemed to tangle together subconsciously as his right arm remained partly wrapped around her waist. He stood close to her with a quizzical stare. Despite her starling shriek, he was more intrigued by her reaction than surprised. Still not having grown entirely use to the idea of another wanting his approval - and being touched - let alone by a woman. Then, as quickly as her excitement erupted, it disappeared. Settling into curiosity as her pale eyes inquisitively stared up at him.

"You did it, darling!" a thin smile crossed his face as he tightened his hand on her's. Trying to easy her concerns and keep her spirits light. He led her closer to the counter by the hand, being sure to keep his arm around her as they neared the colorful carnie. Having felt her body stiffen against his moments ago, he was beginning to assume that she had doubts about their entertainer. Leaning down, he rested his chin on her shoulder hoping that the physical closeness would keep her relaxed as he lifted her hand with his to their adjusted eye level.

He pointed towards the bottom row, dragging her hand along. Keychains sparkled in the florescent lighting, multicolored necklaces dangled from hooks, and a variety of assorted beanbag stuffed animals blankly stared off into space. The collection of prizes were not nearly as extravagant as the life-sized stuffed toys hanging above them but perhaps their novelty would provide enough amusement for her until they found something else to do. "Pick any one of those, my dear. Just one."

Her fingers twitched within his as she redirected their pointing. The warmth of her body seeping through into his. The softness of her feathered curls brushed slightly against his cheek as she adjusted her head next to his, causing him to instinctively lean his head against her. Briefly reminding him of the smoothness of her feathers that use to carcass against his skin as she nestled herself into the crook of his neck. Though now, he did not have to be so gentle with leaning into her. Her humanly form far from fragile.

As the vendor approached, Cypher loosened his grasp around the young woman's body. Letting her stand more independently to collect her prize so that she would make the mental connection that she won it on her own. He stepped back and gave her space. Smiling faintly as she admired the beads in her hands. "Here, darling, let me see," he approached her, taking the necklace from her hands. Spreading the necklace in his fingers he unlatched it. He placed it around her neck before adjusting it over her shirts. A small mirror hung from one of the poles of the stand offering children a chance to admire themselves with their well earned rewards. Redirecting Migisi, Cypher placed her before it. Standing tall beside her with his back on her shoulders, "You like lovely, my dear." Partly taking in the sight of the pair together himself...

What about you, sir? Win the lady something big? His head perked as the vendor questioned him. For a moment, he stood dumbfounded as he debated. Playing games really weren't his thing...but Dr. Heung had always told him he needed to socialize more. It would be awkward to say "no" now and walk away, wouldn't it? He frowned, silently cursing the dastardly technique of singling him out. With a huff, he shrugged, "Why the hell not?"

Ripping off another ticket, he handed it to the carnie. Once again, the strange man danced as he gathered three darts and presented them to the scoffing brunette. Taking his blazer off, he folded it nicely before sitting it on the counter. He rolled up his sleeves...Perhaps getting a tad too into it but apart of him could not help it. Migisi was watching and he wanted to foolishly impress her, wanting to keep his majestic image. "Alright," much like before, he adjusted his lean frame. Balancing his weight on his slender legs before pulling his arm back. Throwing his arm with one swift movement.

Pop!

Another toss...

Pop!

Twirling the last dart in his fingers, he selected the upper left balloon. Eyes narrowing as he aimed...

Pop!

Lowing his hand, his lips twitches. Forming into an amused smirk as he turned to Migisi and gave her a wink. If it was one thing he had learned from his years with AoM, it was how to aim and shoot things.

Seeing Migisi's face light up caused his grin to widen into a more genuine smile. A rare sight indeed. His eyes sparkled slightly beneath his fedora as the woman giggled with glee. Leaping towards him with her arms held outward. Throwing them around his abdomen, she pulled herself against his side pinning one of his arms down in the process and causing him to sway with her force.

The carnie shouted with excitement as he praised the young sharpshooter for his accuracy, though to Cypher, the joy did not come from winning. It came from the happiness illuminating in the woman's face as she pressed against him. He reached for his blazer, flicking up over his shoulder as he held it in place with his thumb. The cool early spring air felt refreshing against his bare arms; a tad nippy but the warmth of the lamps and busy bodies helped fight away the chill. He stood tall as he continued to wait for her to choose the prize. Letting go of him, she quickly pointed to the medium sized dog hanging in the center. The vender nodded with a wide smile as he unhooked the toy from the rake and passed it to her, leaving the pair be after obtaining a few £ worth of tickets.

Flipping the dog around in her hands, she eventually held it up to Cypher. Her head slightly tilted so she could gaze up at him from around the large stuffed dog with a smile. He hesitated. Staring down at her in bewilderment as his pale irises jumped from her fair face to the toy being shoved up to him. His expression morphed a bit. Turning into more of a wary look than happy. He was a tad old for toys and did not have the innocence she did to be able to get away with it. However, if he did not accept it, he would risk offending her. "Thank you, darling," taking the dog into his hands he flashed her a forced smile.

Looking at it, something familiar tugged at his mind. Its dark markings on its muzzle and back resembled a German Shepherd, a majestic dog breed that he held a strange fondness of. A melancholy look flashed over his face. There was something about it that reminded of something he had long forgotten...But he could not remember what...Quickly, he tried to hide his growing distress as he gulped away the brewing emotions as he twirled the stuffed dog in his hand. Nodding to her, he motioned for her to follow him. Gently nudging her with the back of his hand, "Come along, darling."

The pair continued on...Looking for something to do next.

He did it again...Hadn't he? The distressed man groaned as his head hung. Walking silently beside the feathered hair woman, he tried to avoid her gaze. He could not understand why moments always became awkward like this. The reasons behind the emotions the lifeless toy triggered were unbeknown to him, let alone to Migisi. He could not help the way it made him feel nor did he have a strong control of those emotions...He could apologize to her for making her feel uneasy but what good would it do if she could not understand?

The quiet pair wandered through the labyrinth of stalls for awhile. Not looking for anything particular. Just walking for the sake of occupying their minds and doing something other than standing in place. Cypher tossed the stuff dog into the air occasionally, catching it and turning it as he studied it. Trying desperately to figure out what about it tore at him. Something was familiar about it but something also felt so distant...

A whining voice caught his attention snapping him out of his fixation with the toy dog. Gazing up, he glanced over to see a mid-aged woman standing on a soap box behind another counter with a microphone in her hand. Announcing the rules of the game and shouting playful smack talk. He shook his head as he began to turn away from it before he felt a faint pressure in his hand. His eyes shifted from the ground to the source, discovering that Migisi had taken it into her's once again and seemed to be pulling him closer towards the gathering crowd.

"Easy, my dear, easy..." her pull didn't hurt but his dip in mood made him hesitate wanting to be near the activity. Not quite in the most 'playful' set of mind but nonetheless, he followed without refusal. Again trying to hide his thoughts from the woman as he did not want to disrupt her evening again.

People rose from the stools as the bells rang and the plastic monkeys climbed back down the trees. A new shift of challengers took their positions as the woman dressed in a safari outfit began to collect their tickets; her accent a southern dialect but strongly American, "Alright, folks! Alright! Time for another go. Who's next?! Who's next?! Don't be shy! Help these little critters reach the tree tops; first there gets a prize!" She pointed upwards the rows of prizes. These were different that the one's from the previous stall they visited; hard British safari hats and dark brown felt ones - similar to Indiana Jones - hang from the hooks along with a variety of other jungle-themed novelties.

Shifting on his feet, Cypher hung back as Migisi pushed her way closer towards the front. Curiously hovering beside two of the players as the game began. Sprouts of water shot from the nozzles on the plastic water guns and shooting into the circular targets. Cypher winced slightly at the sight of the streams, but remained surprisingly calm. The loud noises around them drowned out the sound of the splashes, allowing him to remain close without too much worry.

The monkeys rose up the trunks until one finally reached the top. Lights sparkled as a bell rang; a spotlight flashed on over the winner. The young boy rose his hands in victory and accepted one of the hats. Placing it on his head, the group of players stood up and allowed a new batch to take their place.

"Give him a round of applause, ladies and gentlemen! Kid's got a good eye but it's time for another round. So who's next?! Who's next?! How about you lil' lady?" The woman pointed down to Migisi and smiled, gesturing her to the empty stool she stood beside.

[Tracking this. I'm still pondering joining, but I don't think I could keep up. ene]

The students were not much younger than than the pair was, or at least, assuming that Migisi's new age was somewhere in her early to mid-20s like Cypher. Two of the three - a boy and girl - had already taken their places at the stools at the far end of the counter. Whispering among each other as they motioned for the third - the one addressing Migisi - to hurry. Teasing him slightly as he spoke to the feathered hair woman. The stranger's attention was fixated on her as he passed the game tickets onto the enthusiastic vender, "Ooooh what a fine young gentleman we have here, folks!"

Suddenly, the brunette felt his stomach twist slightly as the opposing man led the awestruck woman towards the empty stool beside him. Eyes narrowing; fixing themselves on the brown and blonde body as a heated gaze pierced the back of his head. The boy was clueless to the glare. Having his back turned to Migisi's original escort as he attempted to chat her up while the safari woman gave her speech that she perched before every round.

Migisi seemed interested in whatever it was the college student was mumbling to her. Her intoxicating smile only rubbed salt deeper into the distant man's social wounds. Gentleman my arse... He felt his body grew tense. Grip on the stuff toy tightening slightly as he observed them from a far. Uncertain as to why he felt so angered by this new "competition" or why he even saw the lad as such. There was truly nothing threatening about him; he was kind enough to offer to pay for the girl's game and seemed polite from afar but it still nagged at Cypher. Even if he was oblivious to his own developing emotions there was one thing he knew: he wasn't liking the younger man's alluring charm and how captivating it was making her.

With the blazer still draped over his shoulder, he placed his free arm behind his back. Standing tall while he looked over the chanting crowd and watched. He saw Migisi turn around to look for him; her face a mixture of blissful happiness and slight uncertainty. Questioning eyes gazed at him. Reluctantly, he gave her an "approving" nod. He wanted her to enjoy herself but he wasn't liking this turn of events... The blonde noticed her glancing over her shoulder. He turned to see what was catching her attention. His blue eyes met Cypher's. The two men stared at one another for a moment before the younger one brushed him off. Turning back around as the vendor demanded the prepare themselves. While he turned away, a cynical smirk rose over the brunette's lips.

An irritated sigh followed his nod. Shoulders lifting and shagging with displeasure the moment the woman turned around again. Trying his best to keep his jealous frustration hidden from her. Jealous? the thought made him give a tentative chuckle as he shifted uneasily on his feet. Such a silly idea it was...To be envious over her giving the blonde attention and to feel threatened by him. What was there he possibly could be threatening over? Before the pair were nothing more than an "owner" and a "pet" but now what were they? Friends...? Partners...? Companions...? He was not sure. They had a bond but it was such a strange one that there was no true way to define it. He did not own her anymore. Even as a caretaker, he was nothing more than that. It was all he had even been for her, so why was he becoming so infuriated by the scene taking place before him?

Scowling, Cypher glanced away in search of something else to focus his attention on. Wanting desperately to try to keep these new formed emotions at bay and draw a line of separation between them. She needed to socialize; there was no better way to improve her speaking and understanding of the world than to get hands on experience. Making friends would help her feel more "apart" of the world so it was for the better, right...? Jaw clenched while he teeth grinned. Yes, of course all of that was true but why did it have to be a man?

Eyes drifted over the scenery; waiting patiently but on edge for her to finish her game in hopes of being able to slip away with her. Couples passed hand in hand; families led their herds of children onward. Groups of friends gathered at the neighboring game booths to pass a few minutes. His attention seemed to focus on nothing specifically. Just drifted from one person to another as he waited, eventually pulling his blank stare forward again as the bell rang out. Gaze followed the trunk of the top monkey to find the winner. Brows rising in surprise to discover Migisi had won.

Her hands were loosening from the plastic gun. Settling back and gawking around as the vender and three students surrounded her. Even with his height, Cypher found himself stretching onto his tiptoes trying to get a better look at them. wanting to know if the group would leave her be now that the game was over. He lowered himself as he began to relax, seeing her accepting her prize and turning to return to him but then...The blonde stepped up behind her. Following her and calling out to her. Another hot streak ran through Cypher causing him to unknowingly force his way to the front. Positioning himself not far from Migisi as a new group of players stepped in his way.

He could not hear what they were saying, but he wasn't liking the look in the younger man's eyes. Nor did he like the way they were still lingering around her. The group passed, allowing him to move up a bit closer. Politely keeping his distance to not invade on their conversation but close enough to be noticed. Staring the blonde down and sizing him up.

He reached for her. The bloody bastard grabbed her. An anxious twitch rattled the corner of his eye as heated anger ran through his veins. Pressing his way forward the moment Blake's hands reached for her. It only took a few steps for him to near them. Long legs carried him gracefully across the gravel path to the stand though by the time he was close enough to see clearly, the punk had already let go of her. Arms raised in defense as he scoffed her off. Attempting to act as if he was the one shoving her off in order to put on a show for his company. The boy spatted before turning away; Migisi had turned as well and was returning to his side.

Shoulders were raised tightly around his neck. Standing on her tip-toes, she tried to flaunt the hat before him. "Yes yes. Fantastic, darling," Hard eyes ignored the prize while he tilted his head around her. Making sure the college students were gone as he quickly placed an arm around the woman's waist. Nudging her forward till only a small space separated them. His grip was strong but not forceful. Never intending to hold her in place but just "holding" her. Large hand gently caressed her lower back as he felt her, just longing for the reinsurance in knowing she was there. He was not sure as to why he did it; swift movements of his fingers felt the fabric of her shirt and the softness of her skin beneath it. Bottled anger slowly subsiding as a puff her warm breath brushed his neck.

Closing his eyes, he let out a sigh. Feeling foolish over his reaction and mixed emotions. Shaking his head, he let go of her and rubbed his eyes before returning to look at her again. So much had begun to confuse him as conflicting emotions stirred. Though he tried his best to hide them, not wanting to put her in anymore distress.

"Ah such a fine hat, my dear," Taking the hat from her, he ran his fingers over it. Feeling the felt before placing it upon her head and adjusted it for her. Her dark locks of hair patted down by its weight. Another forced smile followed as he gave her a nod before passing the stuffed dog off to to her. Silently asking her to hold it as he motioned for her to follow.

They were nearing the end of the first row of booths. The river of colored tents opened up into a sea of lights in an open field. The clearing seemed to glow as sparkling lights twinkled in an variety of colors. The Farris wheel towered over the other attractions in the distance. A small rollercoaster sat off to the side, shaped like a caterpillar running on a leaf green track. A carousel spun around as hand-painted horses chased one another; rising and falling in rhythm to a cheerful tune. Screams echoed over the field but they held no fear to them. Only amusement and entertained shouts.

The pair stood on the edge of the field, not far from the commotion. Cypher began to roll down his sleeves; the chilly air finally getting to him as they stepped out into the opening. His eyes scanned the new scenery before looking down towards the woman. Waiting for her reaction.

A faint pressure suddenly pushed into his side. The unexpected force made him stumble slightly as the woman knocked him off balance. A few quick movements with his feet braced himself, preventing him from wobbling too much on his longer, slender legs. "Easy now, darling," Rich voice was a low whisper. Almost inaudible against the grinning metal and thrilling screams. Had he not lowered his head to gaze at her at eye level, she might not have heard him.

Gently, he rose his hand to her. Caressing her chilled skin with his warm fingers, he brushed away a stray bang. Tucking the strain behind her ear while keeping their eyes locked. The stern look had faded from his icy stare; blue irises sparkling more brightly in the twinkling lights. Their shades changing faintly as colorful hues from the near by bulbs reflected in them. He allowed his hand to roll along the side of her face. Palm following the curve of her soft cheek before running along her jawline to her cheek, holding her face firmly in place to keep her wide stare from wandering. Silently, he took note of the tight grip she held on the stuffed toy.

"It is alright, my dear. Nothing is going to harm you." Words remained as short as he possibly could have them; trying his best to soothe her. Releasing her chin, he moved his hand into her's. Thin fingers wrapped around her stought hand as he took a step backward, leading her farther out into the clearing. His other arm held outward in an open embrace. Trying to tempt her to come closer, not particularly directing them to any specific ride, but just wanting her to follow. Thinking that perhaps she would enjoy seeing the spectacle shining lights and whimsical movements of the rides.

She resisted him at first. His hand flashed in her peripheral vision, lifting to gingerly caress her hair, her her eyes continued to dart about, fearful of letting down her guard. More screams broke the air, near and far. Strange though, these screams...not all together unpleasant sounds, yet Migisi could hardly think of anything 'happy' to be screaming like that about! Eventually though, a pressure built at the side of her face and she gave to it, abruptly tearing her eyes from the crowd to stare up into his. Fear and uncertainly flashed behind the round pools of blue-silver, but she was growing more aware of him and gradually began to relax. His warm was warm on her chilled skin, the firmness of his grip grounding her again. As his free fingers played at her tight fist, she gave to them, reluctantly released her hold on the stuffed dog to allow his hand to slip into hers. The man breathed steadily against her, the slow rise and fall of his chest out of rhythm with her own. She fought to correct the irregularity, pushing her fear down her throat in a swallow as his calm words reassured her. He wasn't afraid...so there was no reason for her to be, either.

When he pulled away, Migisi's grip on his hand tightened. Once she realized he wasn't going to let go, however, she gave to his lead and gingerly stepped after him, taking in a lungful of the cool night air. Again, she let herself glance around. The giant machines continued to spin and lift and grind all around her. They looked dangerous...yet people continued to pass them by, unaffected. Some glanced at her, their eyes questioning. The woman was quickly realizing she was the only one who was acting nervous. The idea annoyed her, and it showed on her face. Loosening her grip on Cypher, she straightened up a little, suddenly determined to face her fears and figure out what all this was about. But...where to even start?

She moved forward at his prompt, a bit uneasy that he seemed to be encouraging her to lead the way. Flattering maybe, but not entirely practical. Migs had not idea where to go. The whole experience was proving to be a sensory overload, and just when she thought she'd got her confidence back, another loud noise or fearful sight brought her doubt again. At least Cypher seemed happier, though she couldn't be sure why. Everyone was so damn happy! She could hardly find a face that wasn't smiling as she glanced around at the people passing. No, wait...there was one exception. A teenager bolted past her, his face scrunched in a mixture of pain and disgust. He headed for the nearest...blue box?...and disappeared inside. Why anyone would want to do that was beyond her...but at least it wasn't moving, which she couldn't say about some of the other 'boxes' people were crawling into.

They came upon some of the children's attractions as Cypher began to 'explain'. He used the word 'rides' a lot...it didn't really mean anything to her, though. In fact, he was talking a lot again, and she wasn't entirely sure if she was supposed to be listening or not. Instead, she focused on the faces of the kids that were strapped into the little miniature cars on the track. Up and down they rode in a bumpy, zig-zagging circle, grinning. Gated off beside it, giant strawberries twirled about as they spun in circles. High voices shrieked and laughed from within the hollow crevices of the enormous fiberglass fruit. This was so strange... Shaking her head, she nearly ran into Cypher when he came to a stop in front of her. Stopping abruptly, she briefly made a face as though the near-collision had been his fault, but soon his gesturing distracted her. Glancing up, she gasped and stepped back. The ride in front of them began to spin – like most of the machines seemed to do – but this was different. The people seemed to cling precariously on single ropes as they were carried higher and higher, then flung about, feet dangling. Migisi watched the spectacle in bewilderment. She found it hard to put herself in the rider's places, and understand what the point of all of it was. Humans were so very strange, at times.

He'd gone quiet again. The enthusiasm melted from his face as he set a hand on her shoulder and lead her way. She allowed it, still willingly taking his direction. He seemed to know what he was doing, after all, and while she normally liked to take the initiative and try things out for herself...it was an intimidating scene. She felt hopelessly lost in the meaning of it all. They cruised past more of the rides, each growing stranger than the next. The music grew louder as the moved by the carousel. She recognized the forms of the horses, but they were colored odd, vivid colors their eyes wide and wild and their faces contorted in silent screams. Migisi shivered, glancing away as an excited youngster crawled onto one of the immobile equine's backs, gripping tightly to the pole that impaled the creature in place. So very, very strange.

Then, before she knew it, they'd stopped again. Past the Bumper Cars and the Pirate Ship; the Fun Slide and the Tilt-A-Whirl, all the way at the edge of the park. A monster hovered over them. She lifted her eyes to watch the slow spin. White lights flashed on and off, a single bright mass in the center before exploding down the spokes of the wheel before beginning again. Movement at her side made her glance away, and she lifted a brow a Cypher when he grinned again and offered his arm. That enthusiasm was back. It seemed he'd gotten a new idea. Somewhat tentatively, she took his arm and allowed him to lead again. They did not go far. Through a narrow gate they walked to stand behind a line of people. They were closer to the wheel now, right at the base. She could see the man on the platform, working the controls for the machine as it rolled on and on without going anywhere. Then she noticed the people. The line shifted forward when two young women climbed the stairs, giggling as they took a seat beside each other on the strange, swinging bench. The wheel jerked and rolled, and the two were carried away, up and up into the night sky until Migisi lost track of them. She gave Cypher's arm a squeeze as she watched, and a moment later she turned to him, eyes filled with apprehension...but also curiosity. The line shifted again. They were getting closer. Was he thinking what she thought he was thinking?

He was.

It was their turn, and Cypher climbed the metal stairs. She followed him up two of them, then stopped in her tracks, swallowing. A man came and opened the gate to allow them through, his face drawn and frowning. Well, she finally found someone who didn't seem entirely happy to be here. The thought didn't bring her as much comfort as she thought it would...in fact, it irritated her. Her dark brows lowered atop her eyes, creating wrinkles of doubt beneath her bangs as she watched the exchange of tickets. She kept glancing up, unable to help herself. The machine towered, the lights danced. It was intimidating, but beautiful...

The wheel had stopped spinning and an empty bench swayed before them. The hand on her arm gripped tighter. Shifting uncertainly, she scaled the last two steps to stand at the gate while Cypher passed through. Reaching the seat, he turned to her, urging her forward with gestures and calm words. She knew what he wanted...just wasn't sure she was all that willing to agree to it. Shifting nervously, her pale eyes darted to the side to eye the two young boys dangling from the bench behind theirs, waiting for their turn to be let off. They didn't look scared...in fact, they looked bored, wiggling their feet and fidgeting impatiently to depart as they stared out longingly at the more fast-paced attractions. Forbidden delights. Maybe next year.

Someone grunted loudly behind her. The ride worker gave her a hard, disapproving stare. Migisi scowled back at him. Hunching her shoulders in defiance, she stormed away from the gate, letting him close it behind her. Approaching the bench, she gave it a hard stare, lips pressed together firmly...then in an abrupt motion she stepped up, turned around, and sat down. The muscles in her neck rippled as she swallowed her unease, but the woman still managed to glance over and find the unpleasant control-man in order to give him one last glare. See? She could do it!