Far Away Memories {Ruzes & Charlie flashbacks}

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

This can't happen, this wasn't going to happen. With all the power a seven year old can have, Charlie's going to do everything to stop this. By Jeran's reaction this is all the right move to make as well. Obviously he feels just as strongly about the idea of them being split apart. It's not going to happen. Having a forever family means crap to her on account she already has one. It wouldn't even matter if moving far away wasn't involved. But it is, meaning something has to be done. Both agree she's not allowed to be taken just like that. And with Jeran on her side, as he always is, she's daring enough to mention their last vital opportunity to change all of this.

The request that Charlie presents isn't fair. Sure they may both suffer from this, but it'll only be her losing everyone she cares for. Jeran would remain with his loving family. That is if he didn't agree. Despite the setup he gives, making it sound as if he's preparing her for disappointment, he warms her broken heart with his promise to follow her. "Beside me." She corrects through her quivering lip that she quickly bites down on. Now's far from the time to be soft and weak, plus it's not her cup of tea anyways. The fact he's willing to leave his family for her actually has salty liquid stinging the back of her eyes, even though she swears they always remain dry. Still she squishes in her eyebrows and hardens her face to prevent herself from getting emotional.

Only two people will be left behind by Jeran, and partially even for Charlie as well. Though those two people can't be more special or as close to the boy. His dedication to the little blonde is almost non understandable. How he can go and risk it for only one of the three, instead of staying with the two. And sadly he's incapable of just taking all three along as Kyanite's far too little, and Mrs. Ruze would never allow it. "Yeah." It's a deed she'll never be able to pay back, even if this becomes an unsuccessful mission.

All they need to do is hide out for a couple of months though. It doesn't have to be forever. Just long enough to have whom ever wanted to adopt her interested in another kid. Probably even settled and happy by the time they return. Taking this as something that may be able to help them through this, Charlie decides mention this idea. "We'll be back in no time. Give them some time to forget about the adoption. Find someone else." She reassures and accidentally slips the fact they're not just moving her to a different foster house. Not like it even matters either way.

The plan's finalized with a simple gift. It's extremely special though as Jeran crafted it himself. Couple of times Charlie spotted him bent over in concentration for this little thing. She assumed he'd give it to Kyanite, or his mom, but it's graced upon her wrist. Through all the horrible feelings consuming her, this has a grin forming from her once shaking lips. He always has been good at bringing one of those out of her in any circumstance. "Sounds like a plan." Her voice breaks out in a whisper as she throws her arms around her best friend. Grateful can't begin to describe how she feels. "After everyone falls asleep. Under the big oak tree we play on at school." A tight squeeze is given before she storms out of the door to avoid any tears.

[*]

Plans come together in a matter of seconds. He's ready to follow her to wherever she needs to go, but she makes it very clear he'll be beside her instead of following her. That he can agree upon. Why not? Her bottom lip quivers with this fear that he can sense. Unsure of what the consequences that may follow this little plan hatching, he just knows that he can't let her be taken, or to go alone. With the bracelette in his hand, being held out for Charlie, she takes it with a smile. He gently wraps it around her wrist, tieing it where it needs to be tied. It's nothing special, but it's the first gift he's ever given her aside from birthday gifts. Something in him gives him this weird vibration when he lets go of her hand and he can't really explain what it is about Charlie that makes him feel like protecting her, but he does. To him, she's almost like family.

Ruling out the possiblity of Kya going makes it a bit more difficult. He will be leaving behind everyone he loves for this mission. So, they finally agree on how to save her. They'll be meeting when everyone falls asleep in the middle of town at the school. Not only at the tree, but it's where they lean against when they count for hide and seek. The tree has more significance than ever for Jeran because one time at recess, he took a crayon to write on the tree his name and hers along with the phrase 'friends forever' underneath. The only bad thing about that was the rain that came that night to wash off the color. Though, Jeran could pinpoint the exact location of where he'd written it out one time.

"Good idea, Charlie." He says to her but with a tight squeeze, she's suddenly out of his grip and out of his bedroom in a flash. Even sooner, he runs to the window to see her gone from their house. He never even got to return the hug at all. It was just over like that but the hug has him feeling suddenly alone now. Charlie left him standing there with so many questions and so full of fear that the plans wouldn't work out. What if Kya got sick again? What if his mom didn't go to sleep, or his dad?

That night, he laid in bed. The clock was ticking down. His mother had already came in to give him kisses and tuck him in, but his eyes were no where near ready to close for good. Instead, he pretended to sleep until the house was quiet. That's when he got up and changed into his pants and a shirt. His feet slipped into his shoes and he instantly takes out a bag he stashed in his closet earlier when Charlie came in with the plans. With the bag on his back, he leaves his room as quiet as possible before he reaches the downstairs.

"Jewen? Where are you going? Not school time yet." A gentle voice whispers out from atop the stairs. Her hands moving gently over her eyes as she yawns big. A set of eyes stare down at him. "Go back to bed, Jewen before momma catches you."

"Kya, go back to bed. I have something to do." Jeran tells her, putting his finger up to his lips. She shakes her head and starts down the stairs, becoming more alert.

"No. You are suppose to be in bed. You can't leave, Jewen. Take me with you. Please?" She tries to use her charm against her brother like it always would work, but Jeran only shakes his head terribly at her.

"I said to go back to bed Kya."

She shakes her head again and pulls on his arm. "Come on Jewen. Bed time. You are going to get in trouble."

Suddenly, he slaps her hand away from pulling on him. "I said, NO Kya. Go. to. bed! NOW!" His voice raises to a very loud whisper at her the moment his hand slaps against hers, stinging her as if he'd punched her in the face. She pulls her hand into her and covers it with the other. Tears form and collect to her eyes instantly.

Jeran turns away from her and heads straight to the door. His fingers turn the knob and opens it but once again, he feels tiny arms wrapping around his middle as she attaches herself to her brother.

"Jewen, please don't go.... stay with me. I'll tell mom and dad!" She coaxes to get him back inside, but what happens is a shock to even Jeran. He grabs her hands and unwraps her hands from him and pushes her backwards until she falls. The look of pure horror on her face is enough to tell even Jeran what he did was wrong, but with that look from his sister, he races out the door, shutting it.

Fifteen minutes, Jeran waits at the tree. His back against the tree, tears forming at his eyes. Feelings of remorse setting in already for what he did to Kyanite. "Come on Charlie. Where are you?" The darkness starts to play with him out here in the open. Fear starting to play tricks within his head of things that go bump in the night. Finally, he lets the tears go and very gently sobs. "Alone...."

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

"Where have you been Charlotte?" Ms. Carl questions as the petite Blonde enters the large household. It's only been about thirty minutes since she darted out, but it's enough to cause a stir. Then again that minor concern only started five minutes ago. Though there's great odds she'd try to make a run for it, they could honestly care less. It's not like she could get far only being seven. And even still she's barricaded by the district fence. Sooner or later she'll face what's been given to her. It just make it a lot easier that she decided to return.

"Had to say goodbye to someone." Charlie explains briefly, as if Ms. Carl wasn't fully aware of who's place she just left. It's no mystery she went to the Ruze's, only nice that she actually came back. With nothing left to say the small girl's off to the room she shares. Immediately she begins stuffing a single backpack. The walk home gave her plenty of time to plan, and her mind hasn't stopped considering it. For this to really work things need to be handled. The right equipment needs to be packed. Watching the Games gave her plenty of ideas to.

Snores consume the room as eager Charlie stay wide awake within her bed. With more then just parents to wait for to fall asleep, she remains for as long as her patients allows. Those older girls are always staying up late, and running into one of them would ruin it all. So timing has to be impeccable. Once it's been a long while of absolute silence throughout the home, she takes a sit up. Creeping out of her bed ever so silently. There's a lot at stake here. It's not a silly game that would only result in slight disappointment if she's caught. She's running away with her best friend, and one wrong loud noise can alter that.

Delicately she strolls down the stairs, bag equipped on her back and all. Before exiting the kitchen's journeyed to. If they're going to stay hidden food will be needed. Crackers, cans, anything left in the pantry's stuffed in her bag. Predicting anything the tiny first-aid is grabbed as well. Confident, Charlie's just about to exit until a sharp knife catches her eye. Just incase she grabs that, concealing it with a shirt and placing it with the rest of the stuff. Now she's fully prepared and can leave with a raised chin...and soft tiptoes.

A weeping boy greets Charlie under the large tree. "Jeran, what's wrong?" Instinct kicks over as she bends down to his level to grasp him in her warmth. Giving hugs and comfort to people isn't usually in her nature, but for the Ruzes' it always is. Was this a bad idea? Is he having second thoughts? There's no telling if that's the case until he talks. At this point she can only hope it's not. Despite her lack of listening skills, her ears are continuously wrapped around his words just as they are now.

"Everything's going to be okay." Charlie reassures with nothing else left to offer. "In a couple of weeks we'll come back, and it'll all go back to normal." It's the only thing she can give, but with Jeran she's pretty sure it'll be enough. They're a team, and nothing can pull them apart. The knife she brought along is pulled out and revealed. It's not for dangerous purposes though, not now at least. Right where he drew there names, she graves in the very same thing so it'll remain forever. The marker's gone, but she fully remembers it and does her best to imitate it. "Come on, let's go before they find out we left." She urges, extending her hand to him. It's become now or never.

[*]

Silent sobs escape from the little dark haired boy. Small tears drip from his cheeks, soaking into his pants, leaving little wet drops where they've landed. Remorse fills the boy because of what he did and what he was doing. Not necessarily because of running away as much as what he had just done to someone that he promised to protect since she was born. He was the one that pushed her down. He was the one to gave such a harsh voice to. Those tears in her eyes couldn't even begin to match the tears that pooled in his eyes. His was regret, whereas her's was of fear and abandonment. The whole run to where they would be meeting, he kept replaying the moment she fell. When she only wanted him to go back to bed. Something inside was trying to counter his actions and just take her with him, but he couldn't do that to his parents.

"Charlie... please don't leave me out here." His voice barely whispers out inbetween sobs when finally, she appears. Her voice automatically makes a comment on his unstable emotions because she has no clue what horrid thing he had just done. He looks up to her and shakes his head to her and drops his head once more.

"I pushed her. I told her to go to bed. She didn't want to let me go. Charlie, I pushed her down. Kya is going to hate me. I can't go back home. I can't." His eyebrows arch to a sorrowful kind. His eyes trying to search Charlie for any kind of relief but he can't find the answers that he wants. With her arms suddenly going around him, he gives the hug back to her. For once, he feels the comfort now. His best friend is giving him what he needs at a moment like this and his sobs disappate.

"Everything's going to be okay. In a couple of weeks we'll come back, and it'll all go back to normal." She tells him. His eye's dart between her two and with a heavy breath, he gives her a nod.

"Okay. I trust you, Charlie."Even though he gives her his trust, the thoughts of Kyanite still linger in his head. He stands up and watches his friend bring out a knife and for a moment, he opens his mouth to say something about it, but when she starts carving the tree where he once put their names, a small smile appears on his lips.

"That's cool, Charlie. Forever. Our tree." He brings his hand up to touch the tree where she had put their names on it permanently. Then urgency sets in. The sooner they leave, the better because if they tend to linger, they'll be found soon. Jeran's unsure if Kya will tell his parents or not about what he did, but if she does, he'll be punished forever.

"Right. Let's get out of here." She extends her hand and he puts his hand in hers and off they go, right foot in front of the other as they make a break for it into the woods behind their school. Time seems to stretch on as silence fills the air. Jeran, however, breaks the silence ofthe quiet night.

"Charlie... do you think Kya will hate me?I didn't want to push her down. I didn't want her to come. I didn't want her out here. She's been sick a lot and I just didn't want her to get sick again. I am not a good brother. I shouldn't have done that..." He brings himself down as they walk. Immediately following that sentence, he bends down and takes hold of a thick stick that is his height and starts to drag it along behind him. In the distance, a low rumble of thunder echoes through the darkness, but it doesn't seem to effect Jeran.

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

With three years under their belts, there's not much Charlie didn't know about her best friend. For the most part he's shy, but very sweet and funny. There's more then a kind heart, as bravery is hidden somewhere inside of him, to occasionally make an appearance. One thing he's not though is mean. The few people he cares about he'd protect at any cost, and would never even come close to harming one of them. So when he mentions pushing her, Charlie's completely baffled. "Who?" She questions in the middle of him talking. Obviously he had to of run into someone on the way over here...or not.

Shock is all Charlie's able to feel. Either way her arms don't budge away from Jeran. Not when he needs her the most. Once her confused expression is cleared she releases him. Luckily the words that spill from her lips are perfect. More often then not she has to plan comforting words, but in this situation they flow out naturally. Honestly, it's a good thing he feels that he can't go back. Because they're not going back, not if they want to make this all worthwhile. Just as always Jeran agrees with the statement of trusting her. "I trust you to." But she feels as though words aren't enough. That they don't express her complete gratitude towards him and all he's done.

As if it was no big deal, the little blond begins digging the sharp kitchen knife into the old oak tree. Taking each letter with care until the three words are completed. The start of their journey, and engraved symbol of their own forever family. "Yup." Charlie agrees with a smidgen of a smile. This will be a risk for them both, but she's more concerned over Jeran's wellbeing. What if he gets hurt, or in loads of trouble? She just doesn't want to face it alone though. The wannabe knife is concealed once again and safely placed in her bag. The clock's ticking away, meaning they need to scat and fast.

Hand in hand they enter the woods they've only partially explored during the bright daylight. Something about the night time makes it extremely unpleasant and different. Good thing Charlie's not scared of anything... Her game face is put on though as she refuses to let any of it effect her. All she concentrates on is the fact she's getting away with her best friend. And luckily his voice causes an even better distraction as he tells of his fear on what Kyanite thinks, and why he had to do what he did. Forcing her not to follow, because the little one wouldn't last as easily out here with them. It was something that had to be done, and Charlie understands that fully.

"You're a great big brother." Charlie reassures, giving a partial grin in his direction. "We wouldn't of been able to take care of her out here. She'll understand that when we come back." After all it's impossible to think of them not getting along. With Charlie include, they're like the three musketeers. Once they return it'll be like it never even happened.

[*]

A very low rumble occurs again. In the distance, while the too are preoccupied, a storm seems to be approaching, but with the two children under the cover of the trees, the wind that starts picking up only feels like a gentle breeze. If only they knew what dangers were coming with the unstable sky. With the rumbling barely audible, the two kids talk amongst themselves. The young boy confides to his friend whose right there beside him the whole time. Her words seem to calm his fears enough to tell him that he's a great big brother and with the knowledge that they wouldn't be able to take care of her out here has him feeling better. In a way, he had to be a little bit mean to her to make sure she stayed home and that way she was protected. There was no telling what troubles she might have gotten into if she came.

Charlie always seems to know exactly what to say to Jeran to make him feel better. It's natural now between the two. They know what makes the other mad and how to heal a hurting heart. The two of them might as well be siblings as much as they hang out and understand each other. Still, her words seem to stick to him. It lightens his load a lot more then she knows and walking side by side, Jeran bumps into her once just to play with her.

"How do you think we'll get food? I only got enough for a few days. What all did you get?" He questions as he adjusts the backpack on his back. The bag on his back is stuffed to the breaking point. The zippered area stuffed till the zipper won't move anymore of clothes and a few food items. Suddenly, a crack of thunder echoes through the forest, as well as the first flash of lightning. Jeran jumps and immediately puts his arms around Charlie as if to protect her from what was occuring. When the sky goes quiet, that's when his voice seems to set into a tone of leadership.

"Charlie, we need shelter. We need to hide from the storm!" Without even getting any further into their plans, raindrops start to plummet down and soaking the pair of runaways. Big drops pound harshly against the ground, quickly turning everything in front of them into wet clumps of grass or very liquified mud. Jeran takes her hand and immediately starts to run with her. His feet slip several times on the mud while the lightning is the only thing in their way from seeing and not.

Once more, the lightning lights up the sky and for more than two seconds the light holds enough that Jeran is able to catch a hole in the wall of the mountainous area they seemed to be heading.

"Over here, Charlie. A cave.. we can hide in there?" He cries out in the middle of yet another loud crack of thunder. It jars him a little that time enough that he covers his head with his hands then turns to Charlie. "Run!"

His feet splash against the terrain under his foot, but no sooner has he started, the ground beneath him collaspes and both him and his partner tumble into the opening and into the pit of mud and broken twigs. Landing on his back, his breath is taken away as he looks upward toward the sky; raindrops falling on his unwavering gaze to the darkness.

"Ch...ar...lie?"

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Out of all the little girls it had to be Charlie to get chosen for an adoption. There had to be an even tinier child following after her older brother. It had to be on the night she'd still be up, and a storm was brewing in their mist. None of this could of been predicted though, and now none of this can be turned back on. Rethinking and tracing back with no harm being done is no longer an option. By this point worried parents have been stirred out of their slumber and burdened with fear, while an uncaring foster mom is concerned over her job. As for the children though, they're only happy to of escaped together. With their immediate scares settled until loud cracks of lightening and thunder takes over the sky.

For now they try to concentrate of the fact they're still safe. Rain has yet to come down on them, and with the couple of seconds between the flash of lightning and erupting bang the storm's still in the distance. Little do they know it's heading straight for them, where it'll halt its fast travel. Still it's not a current obstacle, which has Jeran's mind only wrapped around a need he knows they'll face; supply of food. Luckily they were both smart in packing to the brim with little clothing and loads of food. A confident smile coming to Charlie's lips for a change since they been out here. If one thing was done right, it's picking the perfect partner.

"As much as my bag could fit." She informs, walking sideways for a second so Jeran can see just how stuffed her bag is. Best to not unzip it to show, it'll probably all come tumbling out. "We'll know how to hunt before we run out." It's a long shot given how young they are. To teach themselves how to kill for food is nearly impossible. Though she's certain they can figure it out after being obligated to watch all those airings of the games. Before they even have a chance to feel like kings of the forest a much closer thunder echos through the trees. Guess it now all depends on if they make it through the first night.

Arms spring around Charlie as soon as they're startled by the loud rupture. Whether it's for protection, or because Jeran's just as scared, she's unsure of. Little of both she assumes. Either way that bravery he saves for rare important occasions comes out. "We do." She fully agrees to finding shelter. Before there's a chance for that the rain begins to sprinkle down, and in a matter of moments it's coming down in a heavy pour. Leaving hardly a warning of the storm that's now upon them. With literally no time to wait any more, they're off with clasped hands. Wanting nothing more then to get out of this danger they only set upon themselves. Guilt has never truly been felt until this very moment for Charlie. How could she possibly get her best friend in this predicament? Something she'll never be able to fogive herself for.

The floor has gone from sturdy to slippery, though they still manage to run through it all. Seems like they take turns with losing their balance, as the other's able to maintain the study footing to keep them both up. Unsure of where they're headed to, they just keep running as if they could get away from it all. A destination is finally set as Jeran's eyes catch a cave in the seconds of visibility from the lightning. Charlie on the other hand doesn't spot it, but she has complete faith in him and follows where his grasp leads. "Yeah, perfect." She agrees despite not being able to see it herself. At this point anything will do.

Everything's altered as they begin to fall into the ground beneath them. It's the last thing to be expected, and takes the both by complete surprise. Land on your feet like a cat is the only thing she's able to consider as she tumbles. Bad idea though as her ankle ignite with the most gruesome pain. Even tough Charlie has to let out a painful response from her fall. "You alright Jeran?" She manages to ask after hearing her name. Doesn't take more then a small reach for her finger to come upon her friend.

What happened, and where are they? For a second Charlie seems to forget about it all until reality slaps her hard in the face. They have to get out of here. "I landed on my feet and they hurt really bad." She decides to share since they really can't keep secrets at this point. Not wanting to spend a second longer in this place she tries to use to the dirt wall for support back to her feet. Any pressure on them is horrible though. Meaning the escape plan will be harder then she was hoping for. "What did I get us into?" Sudden fear and guilt erupts through her in a whisper.

[*]

Jeran is the first to take the lead. It was the young boy who discovered the cave in the first place with what the lightning had given him to see. He had the general direction of the place as well as how high up to go, it was getting there that was the problem for the runaway duo. No sooner had he grabbed her hand and lead her astray through the forest, that the ground began to give way underneath and the moment the weight was altered above the hollow ground, they both tumbled down. While Jeran was the first to fall through the threshold, the debris is what broke his fall into the slippery mud below. Sticks and leaves break under his weight as a scream echoes out from Charlie whose tried to land on her feet. The sound of it makes Jeran wince as he tries to catch his breath, but her name only comes out in whispered gasps.

Something similar to pain seems to irritate the boy as he grimaces from where he lays. The sticks from underneath poking him harshly into his back while the rain keeps hitting him in the face causing him to cough up the liquid trying to drown him and the breath he hardly has. As fingers finally reach over to him, so does a question to the little lad. So far, moving doesn't hurt as he lets his fingers dig into the space between him and Charlie. Mud squishes between his fingers as he pulls himself off the painful poking of the debris underneath him and he lays his head onto his arms. Slowly his chest moves up and down.

"I... think.. so." He manages to get out. Lightning lights up the sky and the hole that they've fallen into and with what little light was given, the hole is nothing but a mud hole waiting to be filled with water. Cold, soaked and with small bouts of pain, he tries to get to his knees while listening to Charlie, whose more hurt then he thought as she explains that her feet hurt from the fall. Immediately, Jeran reaches out for her and coaxs her to sit beside him by pulling on her arm.

"Sit down, Charlie... let me see." He asks as his breaths begin to get better the more he tries to take deeper intakes of air. It still hurts, but he's passed that just by the fact that his friend is hurt. His mind is adverted away from his own problems and he's focusing on her. Once she's sat down, he moves his hands down her leg till he finds her feet and touches the left ankle. "Does that hurt?" He asks then immediately goes to the right ankle, being gentle as he feels around the inside of the foot. A problem is detected almost immediately as he feels the bone somewhat out of place. Even in the dark, it doesn't take a genious to figure out something is wrong even with the way she's cried out in pain and his hands leave her ankle quickly.

"I'm sorry.. I"m sorry.. please, Charlie, don't cry. Don't cry." His heart breaks to hear his best friend crying. He don't like it at all and this is almost the first time that he's ever heard her cry like this. Even as the rain keeps pouring, the thunder doesn't let up, letting out a single loud crack that shakes even the ground around them, causing the mud to sudden pour more into the hole. The danger is getting worse for the youngsters.

PAT -600

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Just as always Jeran has the more intelligent move. Every time Charlie still believes her plan will work out better, and more often then not she's wrong. The dangerous daring side just doesn't seem to ever be in favor of the right card. With no view of the depth, or what the ground holds beneath them, she simply hopes for the best. She's jumped from plenty of high branches in trees before, always landing on her feet with only a small surge of pain. This time's much different as the fall has her jerking to the right, with no success of landing on her toes and hands gracefully. Complete opposite as it has an ankle giving a scream-breaking crack. Everything goes fuzzy as she tries to collect on exactly what's going on, and take in the unbearable pain consuming her.

It takes a second to adjust to the pitch blackness upon them. Soon enough dark figures can be spotted, to occasionally be completely visible as lightning bolts through their sky. Only to be followed by a heart stopping rupture of thunder that has rumble falling into the hole with them with every burst. The small form of her partner in crime is the first thing searched for, and with the trail of his voice it isn't difficult. Just please be okay. By the sounds of his shaken voice he's generally alright though. Startled to say the least, but luckily not as harmed as Charlie. They would of been screwed if that was the case...if they're not yet already though.

Admitting to discomfort wasn't something really taught to Charlie. In this situation it becomes a bit dire though, and even aside from the horrible storm making everything feel that much more drastic. The pain overtaking her ankle is nothing like she's ever felt before, and she's fallen from some pretty tall trees. Her foster parents always taught her to suck it up and not to bother them, but Jeran's never like that. Without a second thought she informs him of the horrible news. A voice strained with disappointment and guilt. And though she knows springing back to her feet will do no good, that's exactly her next move. Determined to not have this the end of it all. Not on the first night, where they'll most defiantly still take her in the morning. Damaged and all.

The gentle tug and words from her friend has her instantly following his suggestion. With how nurturing his mother is, Jeran's certain to have the same talent. He's already proven to when Mrs. Ruze isn't around. Like at school for instances, where Charlie refuses to trust any adult no matter how kind they look. What she wouldn't do for the school nurse right now ironically. Her back slides against the dirt wall that's becoming more like wet clay. They'll have to move soon, but he can play doctor first. It may even help. The left ankle's nudged, and though she landed on it as well, the other one's too burdened with pain to share any with it. "No." She answers, wincing in preparation for the next side.

The slightest touch on the out of place bone has Charlie crying out in pain. Tears stinging her eyes before falling down to join with the many raindrops that already occupy her round face. Immediately Jeran retrieves his hand back, apologies and begs to not cry spilling from his desperate voice. He shouldn't be the one saying sorry though. It was Charlie that got them into this mess. There's such a desire to break down, give up on it all and hope for rescue. But the continuation of thunder and rain prevents that, as a stream of mud begins to flow into the very hole they've been trapped in. It's no time to panic as much as she has a need to, there's a bigger instinct to stay strong.

"I'm fine, i'm fine." Charlie attempts to reassure despite how false it really is. The whimper in her tone clearly states that, though she's refusing to just accept it. "We have to get out of here. Find that cave." She pleads as she slowly and painfully pushes herself back up. If getting to her feet is this much of a challenge, freeing themselves from this hole will be next to impossible. "How do we get out?" Defeat's nearly ready to take over the young blonde. Instead she verbalizes their troubles, with hopes they can put their heads together.

[*]

Hearing his friend cry out in pain is just unheard of. Any other time they've gotten into trouble and the last time he can recall of her being in pain, it was from when she fell from the tree the year before. Even if tears might have graced her face and rolled down her cheeks, that pain is nothing compared to the wail she let out when his hand touched the area on her ankle that is clearly broken. Age has nothing to do with common sense as he can tell so readily that her ankle shouldn't feel like that. His hands leave her ankle quickly not wanting to cause more pain and already words of regret pour from his mouth to calm her down.

Yet, there's not calming this situation that has suddenly become more than just running away to avoid losing his best friend. It's become almost life threatening as the mud around them starts to cave in and water seems to be coming into the hole as buckets. Now isn't a time to just sit there and try to coax his friend into not crying as she clearly tries to be strong and saying they need to get out of there. With a nod, he has to agree and his hands are on her arm as she tries to stand.

"Stay off your foot, Charlie... so you don't make it worse. I'll help you." He says and it's clear that's what he wants to do. With one arm still around her, he uses one hand to see about digging his hands into the wall around them, but it only comes out in clumps. It's unstable and falling apart as much as the rain thatbeating against it is loosening it.

"Charlie. STand on my shoulders. When you reach the top, pull yourself out then help me out!" Formulating a plan seems easy for the one that isn't clouded by pain. He bends down and allows her the needed room in order to stand on his shoulders, yet he knows that she'll only have the grip of one foot, so the moment that her foot is pushing against his shoulder, his hand goes to stable her. "Go Charlie. Climb... Get out!"

Something don't feel right at that moment. With her weight pushing against his body, he feels his feet sinking into the ever deepening mud. Already, he feels the mud around his ankles, covering his shoes but he suddenly, uses both hands to grab on to her ankle and push upwards as his body sinks further yet again. Just like that, her foot is out of reach as he can only hope and pray that she got out as he crumples to his knees in the mud, but it seems like he's not even bending over as the mud has completely covered his legs to the top of his calves.

"Charlie.. go get help. I can't move." As much as he don't want to make the situation any worse, he knows that Charlie will be the only surviver in this harrowing ordeal. Panic and fear seems to eleate the boys senses as he tries to get his feet out of the mud but just as much as he pushes to get out, the other foot keeps sinking further and further down. Finally, he stops moving to prevent him from going any further into the mud. "Charlie.. I'm stuck. The mud... Go get help!"

PAT - 574

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Usually in every situation Charlie's quick on her feet to form a plan or solution. As if what to do simply zaps into her brain like that. Always managing to get Jeran and herself out of most circumstances. Not so much currently though. The pain being far too real for her to see past anything. To her it's become pointless. Trapped in a cage that has no heart to let them go. They're going to be discovered, that is if they don't get buried alive first. Defeat's nearly ready to set in though she has the smallest fight left in her as she stumbles to her feet. The support from her friend catches her immediately. Taking off that pressure that would of had her sinking back to the puddle that's formed below them. Still an actual resolution has yet to grace upon her, and desperately she seeks it out of her best friend.

Asking for help is the last thing Charlie ever does, except when it comes to Jeran of course. He's always remaining a step ahead of her where he's constantly offering a hand before she even knows she needs it. Such as now for instances, as he advices for her to stay off of her wound to prevent it from getting worse. Wrapping an arm around her to do just that as they try to conjure up a strategy. Knowing he's right, she gratefully goes into his comfort. Leaning against him and the slippery wall to take the load off of her gruesome right side. Unless there's a set of stairs, getting out of here feels very unlikely.

First idea formulated is to climb out. Nothing that Charlie could of created as her ankle's practically throbbing in her ear. Laying all the responsibility on Jeran feels horrible, but also nothing she can help. He's just as much of a quicker thinker at least. And though pulling themselves out seems logical, there's no grasp within clay-like surroundings. They'd come plummeting down before making it a foot, if Charlie can even make it that far with her ankle. That plan is scratched, and the next is explained in seconds, by none other then Jeran who's becoming a natural. Possibly because he already is one. A heroic type though it's hard to predict from his shy attributes. He is though and Charlie's fully aware, especially now.

Getting herself out first is the last thing Charlie wants. It's their last reasonable option, since lifting him out will be impossible with her right foot's condition. Confident she'll be able to pull her friend out in return, she goes with it. Carefully climbing onto Jeran's back, being cautious of her now weak spot. A hand cuffs around her good food though, attempting to keep the balance as he raises her. Her eyes meet above the edge of the hole until they sink down an inch unexpectedly. Unsure of why that happened, all Charlie can focus on is her escape. Once she's out she can pull out her best friend, but none of that will happen if this is unsuccessful. Grasping anything she can from the outside, she drags herself to freedom. Breathing heavily as she finally sprawls out on the much safer grass above.

Being out of the scary depth is indescribable. But her fears immediately return with the memory her other half still in down there. Her hearts gives a harsh twist that's nearly as painful as the burn in her ankle. Not wanting to aggravate the bone anymore she crawls over to the large opening. Letting her head hang over to discover Jeran's condition. "I'm not leaving without you, grab onto my hand!" Charlie begs, extending an arm down as far as possible. The length of her reach is nothing compared to her height though, and she's not even able to feel the slightest touch of his fingertips. "Come on Jeran!" She begs as tears begin to return that sting to her eyes. "Reach!" She pleads with him as if it'd make a difference.

The sad predicament is given as he announces that he's stuck in the mud. Even giving the request for Charlie to go get help. With the distances they've made and the condition of her foot, she knows that's not going to work. But Jeran's always been right, and with that she attempts following his orders. "Okay." She finally gives in, and the sound of her voice says it all on how much she hates it. "Don't go anywhere." Like he can. She claws her way over to the nearest tree, painfully pulling herself to her feet. Luckily there's lots of trees the entire way there, but they still have a few feet between all of them. The first hop already has her falling and screaming in failure. There's no possible way she'll make it all the way, and even if she somehow did, the entire hole would filled to the brim by the time she got back with help.

The landing's hard and painful, physically and emotionally. She's just about ready to jump back in the hole with Jeran. Figure out a way to get him out, or suffer along with him. The large thick stick that he's been dragging behind catches her bright eyes. There could still be hope for them yet. Tightly she grabs onto their last savior like her life depended on, probably because Jeran's life just might. Instantly crawling back over to the hole, no longer caring about the unbearable pain in her leg. "I can't walk." She quickly explains through her out of breath gasps. "Grab onto this." The grip on her end is like the branch is superglued to her hand as she fishes around for his hold. Once he's secured one just as tight, she pulls with absolutely everything she has in her and more so. "Hold on tight!" She warns. There's no way she's leaving him in there.

[*]

Protecting his friends and family is what is most important to Jeran. It's been instilled into his head from the moment Kyanite had been born that day when he was told he was a big brother. From the exact moment that his father took his hand at just a mere two years old, and he laid eyes upon the precious little girl that he calls Kya, being a protector was drilled in his head. Keep her safe. Don't let anyone harm her. You make sure that whatever happens, you make sure she doesn't get injured. If anyone hurts her, you will answer to me. Phrases stick to his mind the moment that his father had said over the years. He's never met a problem that he's never been able to accomplish when it came to protecting his sister. When it comes to Charlie, it's a little bit different. She has saved him many times. In a way, they pay each other back. Her friendship to him is about as valuable as his sister. She is in every way, something that he will keep safe if it means that something happens to himself. That's why he's went on this journey with Charlie. Because he knew, at some point, that she would need him. He just never expected that it would be this early into the escape.

Without her muddy foot pressing down on his shoulder, he knew he had done what he aimed to do. She would be safe from this muddy pit if it suddenly was to collaspe. He would not be alright, but at least his best friend would be. She was more valuable to him than any jewel they could bring up from the rocks. She was more precious than any gem that could be polished into perfection. She was his everything. If it meant that he would take his last breath before the mud covered his head, he knows that he did everything to protect her from a horrible death.

Drop of rain fall through his hair. His eyes looking down into the pitch black mud that has no source of light. The backpack that he's put back on his back is regretably pulling him further and further into the mudd as he tries to move even the littlest bit. The extra weight is pulled off no sooner had he put it on and with an anxious try, he throws it up into the air, but it falls back down beside him. A scream suddenly penetrates his ears as she screams out for his friend whom he had sent off to go get help. Her foot would cause them trouble, he knew, but at leasts she had a chance of getting out while he was being slowly suffocated in the mud that will soon consume him as the rain pours into the hole.

Flashes of lightning grace the sky, allowing Jeran the ability to see more and more of what's going on around him. In one split second, a clump of mud falls, hitting him in the back, making him fall over yet again, his hands sinking deep withing the ground in front of him that is becoming more of a muddy pool than a death trap. If he doesn't get suffocated by mud, then he'll drown in dirty water. If only the rain woulnd't keep going. If only there was a way to get out.

"I can't walk. Grab onto this."

Her voice is heard among the rumbling of thunder in the background. By the sound of it and the length of time between each strike of lightning and the thunder, the storm is very much upon them without the courtesy to leave any time soon. It's horrid for these two youngesters to have to deal with this, but being the troopers they are, they keep fighting. With tooth and nail, Charlie keeps moving trying to save her friend by poking a stick into the pit to pull her friend out. A gust of wind enters the pit, sending cold chills down JEran's back as he reaches up to grab the stick. Little by little, his feet move upward, but without the presence of shoes, his toes seem to dig deep into the muck to climb a little higher each time.

"Charlie. My shoes..." He tells her as he uses the tool he's clinging to like a life support. It just might be the only thing that is keeping him from sinking deeper. Just as soon as his feet is topside of the wet soil, the clouds open up to a second round of full liquid being poured onto them. A mouth full of water is spit out as Jeran tries to figure out how to climb without the water going into his nose nor his mouth, but the grip on the stick is waning with the mud caked fingers that he has. Even on the other end, he feels the stick coming more in his direction.

"Don't let go Charlie. Please?" He said about the time that a gush of water pours over the edge, and Jeran falls onto his back, splashing into the muddy water. Autmatically, he begins to cough up the liquid that fell into his mouth. "It's no use..." Jeran's heartbroken. As good as they were doing, it just wasn't enough.

"Charlie, promise me - you'll go to that family if something happens..."

Devistation seems to always find these two as lightning flashes brightly right beside of Charlie, hitting the tree with a loud crack and the huge branch only feet away from her ignites for a moment with fire before falling down and covering half of the pit while a yell is heard then complete silence.

The rain lightens up just slightly, no longer pounding on the pair, though the one in the hole has suddenly became quiet. Jeran's eyes remain closed, partly in fear from the sound of the crack but also of fear from seeing the branch falling toward where he currently is stuck. With what courtesy the sky does give, it lights up enough of the half covered hole with branches and leaves that stick down into where he's being held captive. Slowly, he moves and crawls over to the edge where he was sure he saw a branch that was within arms reach. Slowly, but surely, he takes hold of the twigs first, and then the thicker part before putting his bare feet against the wall of the pit and slowly pulling himself up.

"Charlie?" He questions, when his hands reach out among the edge of the hole. "I need help..." He grunts as he pulls himself out slowly and tiredly. He stops halfway, as he lets his head lay against the branches that saved him and takes a deep breath. All the while, his mind is screaming for him to go a little bit further, but his body just won't let him. His toes slip from their grip and he slides just an inche back down before grabbing harder onto the branches. "Charlie!"


PAT - 1175

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Determination hits Charlie more then anything else can. The pain of her ankle, the ache in her heart, none of it matters as she only wants to save her friend. Somehow he's gotten her to safety, and she has to return the favor. If nothing else is ever done in her life, she has to save him. Even aside from now it's become a meaning to her existence, to protect her best friend just as he does for her. There's even desperation behind her actions, along with refusal to face defeat. Either Jeran's coming out, or she's going to be pulled in trying.

Just hardly some progress is made as Charlie can feel the ability to raise her grasp slightly. With everything left she tries to tug Jeran free. Each yank has her hands sliding up their last chance, threatening to take away her complete grip. And every time she scoots her fingers back down to try again. Nothing was going to take this branch from her, not if she could help it. Something's taking her friend's ability to release from the hole, keeping him captured in the danger below. "Take them off!" Charlie advices when Jeran only mentions his shoes. Obviously that's whats taking him down like quicksand, meaning they need to go. Rid of any obstacle in the way.

Again she pulls at the support with the feel that he's managed more freedom. "Never!" Charlie promises through her strain of giving her all to bring him up. Not until the wood breaks or her palms are bleeding, and maybe not even then. There's nothing capable of stopping her, broken ankle and all. Then again it goes two ways, and suddenly the lack of pressure on the other end has the stick flying up towards her. Jeran lost his grab and goes plummeting back to square one. Nearly ready to give up as he announces that it's no use. But it's can't be, this isn't anything to just accept. His life may be laying on the line, and she's refusing to let him cave that easily.

"Grab back on!" The pleads continue as she waves her stick around. Getting spots of his location on the ground whenever the lightning comes through the sky. Instead of trying again he goes for getting another promise out of Charlie. Attempting to persuade her into going with the potential family if anything were to happen. Except that if anything were to happen they'll either be making it out together, or not...just no matter it'll be together. "No!" She refuses his last request. "Nothing's going to happen! Now grab on!" She demands before getting disturbed by the loudest bolt thus far.

Never before had Charlie witnessed lightning within a close proximity. Then again she didn't really this time as she instantly covers her head and rolls away from the chaos. Within seconds something large lands feet away from her with a large bang. The lose of her stick no longer seems to matter as her eyes come upon what she could of been crushed by. Before she can even be thankfully over her predicament, the worry over Jeran quickly consumes her. Was he not so lucky? The sound of his sweet voice speaks out her name though. Giving her relief more then anything else could at this point. "Jeran." She calls out in return to clarify the fact that they're both safe. For a second she remains on her back to catch hold of herself, though she's quickly sitting up to investigate.

The faint cry for help has her movements much faster. Maneuvering herself over the large branch, ready to do anything she possibly can. Returning words doesn't seem to matter as her complete focus goes into the rescue. Smaller branches sticking from the large piece of wood provides the perfect support and ladder in and out of the hole. Putting her pain aside she ventures down until spotting a hand of Jeran's. Just as her names screeches out, her own palms clasps ahold of him. "I got you!" She reassures, tightening her grip of his precious arm. Now there's no possible way she's losing him, she won't allow it. They'll go down together if anything.

With everything left in her she gives a hard pull to bring him up. The thing that frightened them most is actually saving them now. Slowly but surely she can feel Jeran get free from the lifetaking hole. Eventually even moving past her until his complete small frame is laying in the muddy grass, but at least it's not the muddy hole. With his safety intact, Charlie joins him in the break from danger. "Are you okay?" She asks while taking him tightly into a hug that she'd rather not ever let go from.

[*]

The entire time as Jeran hangs precariously on the stick, Charlie is refusing to let him go that quickly. She's determinded and perhaps, even more so than Jeran himself. She's got it lucky though. At least she's out of the danger, whereas he's still unable to really count for much. His feet still sink in the mud. The stick has hardly any grip on it and Charlie is just his age, with barely enough strength to hold him in one place and with an ankle like that, he's surprised she's even able to focus enough to help him out. Though, the support of the stick is released with a flood of water that makes him lose his grip and he falls back down. Words of pessimism is heard and promises to make her life even better is needed to be known before he succumbs to his fate.

Still, the good thing about Charlie is that she's not willing to give up on him too easily and even if he's unable to grasp the stick again, some other force has taken it upon themselves to show them another way to get out. Lightning has suddenly became their ally, breaking off a good sized branch from the full trunk. It's just what little Jeran was needing to make another attempt at getting out of the hole. It has to be done one way or another. If he doesn't, then the pit in which he has fallen will surely become his grave without the need to dig the six feet down.

Despite the pain to hold on to the tree branch, with the many twigs poking and scratching up his arms, he fights against the grain until he feels that he can't go on anymore. Upper strength doesn't really come in for a boy his age until he's been trained better. He's only been under the supervision of his father for less than a year, and he's surprised that he's done as well as he has given the circumstances of being asleep at this hour of a night anyways. Exhaustion seems to be the key factor working against him as he finally calls out for help. Surely, Charlie isn't too far away from him in order to get to him quickly before all of the climbing so far would be in vain. The scratches he feels stinging on his feet and his hands and arms will be for nothing if he falls back down into the bottom of the muddy grave.

In only moments after his call for help, he sees Charlie going over the side to help him. Then in matter of harrowing seconds, he feels her hand against his own and tears become his friend at that moment. If any other moment has been terrifying, just having her hand on his is enough to give him the strength and courage to keep going.

"I've got you!" She tells him and he fully gives all of his trust into her. HEr fingers squeeze hard, showing him just how much she don't want to let him go. It's something that Jeran seems to be all too grateful for and she pulls on him as much as she can. With fingers pulling up on the branches and his toes digging into the wall, the aid is just enough that before he knows it, they are over the edge in no time.

Gentle moans come from the boy in the form of an inaudible sob. Hiccup like breathing is making it clear that he's worked up about what happened. That he, himself, could have ended up at any minute, been tossed back down in that crypt and only to be found at a later time when his breath would no longer be exiting and entering his small lungs. He looks over at Charlie, looking at her face to measure the amount of pain she might be in and before he can ask about her, she's making that statement to him.

"I'm... scared." He says bluntly. Normally, he's never scared and never been known to actually admit it so openly. Though, if he can't be open with the person that just saved his life, then what good would it do? "I was really, really scared, Charlie."

It's just as if she knew exactly what he needed and her arms are around him in a moments notice. He's instantly taking that hug and returning it just the same knowing she had to go through so much to keep him from giving up when it seemed hopeless. He suddenly shakes his head. "I told you to go for help... you know I didn't want you to fall down again. Thank you for saving me." His words come out with a shaky tone.

His hand goes down to his feet and tries to wipe off some of the mud, but as he does a stinging sensation shoots up his leg from the scrapes and cuts that he's incurred from the battle with climbing the tree. The lightning begins to lighten up just to ever other second now. The rain has turned back to a good rain instead of a monsoon like downfall. "Charlie... we need to get to that cave still. We need to get out of this storm before another tree falls on us. Can you walk..." He asks, but already remembers how she could barely get up on her own let alone hearing the scream when she did try to go get help. He knew her foot is no good at all.

"Charlie, get on my back." He states and stands up from where he was previously resting. Right now, there is no resting. They still need safety out of the storm and the last place he saw was that the cave was just up a small hill. He crouches down in front of Charlie and gives his full back for her to cling on to. "Get on Charlie. I'll carry you." He reaches out for her hand and when he feels that she on, he puts both hands underneath her legs, mindful of her ankle, to keep her from slipping and starts off on the trek up the hill to the shelter.

Wind whips around the pair, pushing the water from the clouds to partially clean off his extrememly muddy attire. Even his face starts to run free of the gunk that decorates the boys face. "You okay Charlie?" he questions as his feet slip on the wet mud as he almost tumbles with Charlie in tow. His regains his footing, digging his feet into the soil below to gain traction for the climb up the hill and to the cave that is coming into view more and more as Jeran nears it. The threshold of the cave is about as dark as the pit was only the dry atmostphere is too tempting to leave once inside. Two steps inside, he bends down and lets Charlie sit down in their makeshift shelter.

PAT - 1166

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

There's hardly anyone that holds value within Charlie's life. No parents to call her own, or sweet personality to gain her friends. Only Jeran, and the amazing family he so generously shares. Without him, her life would have no purpose. Hence the reason for being out here in the first place. Seems like fate is just determined to separate them one way or another. But just like the potential adoption that would have her moving far away, she's not going down without a fight. Age, pain, none of it matters as it's set aside for determination. Now that she has his physical touch within her grasp, there's no way in hell that she's letting go. They can both fall back in for all she cares. There's nothing strong enough to pull them apart. Not now, not ever.

Both children land with heavy breaths and aching bodies. But they're safe. After all of that, they've somehow made it through. Relatively unharmed compared to how it could of ended. Wanting to hold him in her grasp forever, Charlie quickly sinks into a comforting hug. Knowing that's exactly what they're both in need of currently. To catch their breaths and take in the fact they're no longer facing danger. His heart thumps loudly against her ear as she remains as close as possible. Arms captivated around his shaking body as if it could possibly make a difference. In the slightest way it does though. "You're okay now." She reassures through a squeaky voice. There's no need to be scared anymore.

Though there's still a storm to take cover from, a minute of rest is needed. Still both of the young tykes are heaving for much needed oxygen after all of that strain. And apparently a few words have to be said first as well. Like how Charlie didn't listen -as always- by not going to get help, and how he was trying to prevent her from falling back in with that order. In the long run her remaining presence is what pulled him out those last two feet though. "I'd rather of fallen back in then leave you." She explains as if she had a decision in all of that. Her ankle sort of makes the rules now.

This is no time for a picnic in the park, and Jeran quickly turns back into solution mode now that he's free. There's no telling what this storm will present to them next, and their best option is getting to that cave. Getting there becomes the real question though. "I don't think so." Charlie admits honestly, that relief she had just moments ago vanishing from her expression and all. Well that lasted long. They're practically just as screwed from out here. In no time a mud slide will bring them back into the hole probably to.

Usually Charlie's the first to jump to knowing what to do, never willing to face any form of defeat. Now though, with everything they've already gone through and the pain throbbing from her ankle, she feels hopeless. Until Jeran comes out to be the one maintaining confidence when they truly need it. Now he's the one that's determined. Finding a sudden burst of strength in his tiny, beaten up body. A back is offered for the Blonde's transportation, and with no other choice she has to take it. "Are you sure?" Hesitant at first she still climbs on slowly and gently, afraid that her petite weight would crush her only slightly taller friend. Somehow he pulls to his feet though, supporting her and all.

Through it all Jeran manages the entire trek. Quite a few times Charlie's certain they're not going to make it, as a couple of single bad footings threaten to take them down. If they fall, even not in a hole, there's no telling if they'll be capable of getting back up. It's a surprise that Jeran has this much in him. And he even continues to perform the unthinkable. Together they can make it through anything. "Mhm." Charlie answers quietly. Arms draped over his shoulders, fingers connecting tightly at his stomach to prevent from choking him. "You?" She hardly gets out. Would of assumed the lack of walking would have her breathing back to normal, but the coldness and pain won't allow that.

They actually make it. Dryness, shelter, it all felt so unreal and unreachable. A small luxury that they would never get again, though they're graced with it now. Being taken off of Jeran's back is a relief in so many ways, primarily that she's no longer his burden. Not physically at least. Despite the hardness of the dirt floor, it's indescribable on how good it feels. Well until the full blown pain from her ankle has a chance to set in. Discomfort quickly taking over her expression. She takes hold of her best friend's hand with no interest in losing his touch after everything that happened. As selfish as it may be she needs him, so she gently tugs for him to sit. Wondering why he didn't immediately collapse in the first place. "Relax." She urges through a cracky voice that's attempting to mask the unbearable pain.