Polysoul: The Ups And Downs Of Sharing A Body

Chapter 4: Skeledirge: Mama, Look!

A Skeledirge's fire bird shows his Mama some new tricks.

"Mama! Mama!" The bird-shaped ball of flame chirps, bumping against Skeledirge's nose.

"Yes, my Little Soul?" Skeledirge says softly, smiling as the bird hops backwards.

"Look what I can do, Mama!" Little Soul stretches his legs, balancing precariously in the air. "Are you watching, Mama?"

"Of course I am, dear." Skeledirge laughs. "You're doing such a great job!"

"Watch this, Mama, watch this!" Little Soul breaths in deep, breathing out a tiny plume of fire. "Rawr!"

"Oh my!" Skeledirge leans back in exaggerated astonishment. "Careful, such big flames could hurt someone."

"I'm the carefulest, Mama." Little Soul declares proudly, trying to draw himself up and stumbling. "Uh-oh... Mama, catch me!"

He tips forward, legs shrinking as he flutters onto Skeledirge's uplifted nose. He settles down with a yawn, tired eyes blinking.

"Did you like my tricks, Mama?" He asks sleepily. "Were they really good?"

"The best, dearest." She answers, lifting a claw to smooth down his flames. "Did they tire you out?"

"Yes, Mama." He nods, head drooping. "Is it bedtime yet?"

"No, but why don't you take a nap for now?" Skeledirge coos, bobbing her head to gently rock him. "I'll be right here when you wake up, Little Soul."

"Promise, Mama?"

"Of course, dearest."