[PQ] From the Ashes, part 1

It had been some time since Caiside had worked with strangers, though it was an easy strangeness to bear with the friendliness of them. At least, one of them. It seemed like every time he looked at Jigano’s shadow, there was a different emotion simmering on his face, and with the type of work they were doing, the thoughts the expressions betrayed could be anything. Normally, his ability to read the people around him was a point of pride for Caiside, and this situation was a frustration he didn’t want. Melita, in stark contrast, was a ray of sunlight. He returned her wave, and her greeting, his own smile beaming back at the girl. ”Caiside. It’s a pleasure.” Before he could get in another word she was back to work with an energy Caiside could only dream of, but one he tried to emulate in his own work. It didn’t last long, if he worked at the same pace she did he’d be collapsed within the hour, especially in the heat. That was still something he was getting used to as well, being sensitive to the temperature and rays of the sun. It was strange, the things he’d taken for granted at home, with his power. Before too long, though still far longer than Caiside was used to doing manual labour for, he found himself wanting a break, and seemed to find the perfect excuse in the confused face of Melita as she looked around. Before she could get back to work properly, Caiside stopped her, tapping her arm gently. ”What were you looking for?” He asked, his tone implying he would be happy to help. Then, he looked over her, his smile slipping as he ran a critical eye over her falling braids. ”Did you want me to fix your hair? It’ll help keep you cooler.” He offered, not mentioning the added bonus of giving them each a few extra moment to rest in the restive colness of the shady interior. It seemed like she could use the rest as much as he could, her youth only able to power her for so long. Caiside I have never been allowed to be Holy, I have never been forgiven for Wanting;