Back in the combs, Gideon throws together a small den for the elemental and himself.
Concrete and steel fused into each other to form a primitive home.
The pale figure settles down. Flames fighting to stay awake- like the human they inhabit.
"Will we have a home again gid?"
Internally, Gideon sighed. "Brandon. There's no need to worry. I'll figure everything out."
Brandon rubs his temples as he gazes upon the insects that roam the combs. Small firefly's and pulsing beetles creep from the crevices they hollowed out.
Pipes leaked. The buildings around them cracked and groaned as they settle.
"Brandon, I found a uhh…"
Gideon scratches his head.
"A blanket I think?" He reviews the scrapped piece of fabric once more- The faint smell of kerosene and old drugs rise into the area. Gideon shakes his head.
"Yknow what, never mind."
Brandon smiles softly.
The flames that form around his sweater had long died out.
Lying beside him, Gideon checks his watch. "It's 1:24. We've gotta rest in order to keep up this manhunt."
After shivering, Brandon nods. "Night gid"
"Night pye."
The boys lay in darkness. Listening to the airway vehicles rumble above constantly- The occasional beep or engine pop fill the den like white noise.
The city of Gomorrah never sleeps.
"Love you."
Gideon throws his arm over his best friend.
Brandon smiles. "Love you too big guy."
Brandon's breathing steadied, but one flame slipped free out his fingers. The ember shot from his index to slowly float and sink. Softly it flowed deeper into the combs, against the flow of air.