[Papa, I miss you,] Ash's voice echoed in Raiden's head from across the room. She bounded down from Noelle's shoulder and sprinted toward him.
[You look tired… are you okay?]
Raiden caught her in his arms and pulled her into a hug. "I should be asking you that, Ash," he muttered, stroking her fur.
"You can speak now, but it's like you're ignoring me."
Ash gave him a faint smile, enjoying the feel of Raiden's hands brushing against her scales. He placed her on his shoulder and turned to Noelle. The aether cigarette rested between her lips, her golden aura glowing beautifully around her as her short dark hair flickered behind her, hands tucked in her pockets.
"I'll leave you two to it." Zion's voice cut through from behind Raiden, and he turned to go.
Raiden gave him a firm nod as he watched him descend into the arena.
Ash, what happened? Noelle seems a little tired—Raiden projected to her.
[She will tell you, Papa.]
