Post by Dragon on Jun 15, 2009 16:05:28 GMT -5
Fossils have so much to tell us if you're willing to listen.
Thank yomigaere on dA for the artwork.
It's all wavy and gorgeous <3
My Parents call me...
[He tugs slightly at his gloves, looking pointedly embarrassed before continuing.]
But my full name is Roark Clancey Hyouta. I beg you, please don't tell anyone about my middle name. It's very feminine sounding and...well, there are so many other things people have been able to rub in my face aside from what they can't already see. I guess Mom had a say in things after all, though we haven't seen each other since I was very young. Out of all the names she could have chosen, I would love to know why that one.
[His cheeks flush slightly before smiling and the entire thought is shaken off.][/ul]
My Friends call me...
[The names immediately bring a splash of happy color to his face.]
-- they call me Roarkie sometimes. I really don't mind the nickname at all. They would never call me that to hurt my feelings or anything, and to tell you the truth, I've been Roarkie to those two ever since we were kids. Kinda makes me smile, you know?
[Just speaking about it causes his lips to curl upward instinctively.]
Alright, it's always made me smile. It's the one name I've been called that doesn't sting, and it's a pleasant reminder of all the good times we've shared. I have my names for them too, you know![/ul]
I'm not an it! I'm a...
[His eyes widen for a moment, cheeks flushing to the point of outright surprise and embarrassment.]
Why would you think otherwise? I understand that my hair is a little longer than most and I'm not overflowing with muscles like my Dad, but that's no reason that I can't be a man, too! I work just as hard as he does in the mines on a daily basis, and well...I just can't understand why my gender would be so confusing to you!
[Fists clenching, he shakes his head and refuses to say any more on the subject.][/ul]
I am a...
[He notices your curious stare and rubs at the back of his helmet line sheepishly, though his demeanor seems more apologetic to his actions than for the subject.]
I didn't mean to get carried away like that. It's just that I'm an avid collector of fossils and just thinking about them sometimes gets me really excited. It's been that way ever since Dad introduced me to the mines. Thanks to him, I'm also the Leader of the Oreburgh City Gym, but it's safe to say that I spend more time in the mines than anywhere else. It's almost like a second home.
[As he nods happily, it's apparent that Roark is very passionate about his duties.][/ul]
I don't need wrinkle cream! I'm...
[He rubs one arm and continues, cheeks flushing slightly.]
Don't get me wrong. I've heard quite a few age jokes, but never one like this. I know in a lot of ways, I still resemble a kid, but don't assume that I'm not capable of acting in a mature way. A kid could never handle all the responsibilities I deal with on a daily basis -- mining is serious business, and I'm proud to say that I can stand on my own two feet!
[Folding his arms, a simple yet thoughtful nod is given.][/ul]
Do you think I need a diet?
[As you rephrase the question, he continues to smile and answer with little concern for what just happened, creating the impression that he is proud of his figure yet does very little to openly flaunt it.]
So you were just curious about my uniform? That's no problem -- it is slightly different from the other worker's, but only because of my Foreman duties. Here, let me give you a quick lesson in safety gear. You never know when the information might come in handy!
[His tone is suddenly full of color and excitement, making it seemingly impossible for you to even consider interrupting. Putting a finger to his helmet, he looks up and adjusts the rim with a smile before turning bright, crimson eyes back towards you.]
A sturdy helmet comes with the job, but I've actually had mine since I was younger. Dad always thought that the bright red color looked great with my hair, and I enjoyed the fact that we matched in a way. That and I tended to use it for all sorts of exploring! Technically, I still do -- the light really comes in handy when our underground digs get intense. My glasses? Not so much.
[Pushing the eye ware slightly further up his nose, he grins softly.]
Though they don't get in the way either. I've been near-sighted pretty much my entire life and what's the point of not being able to properly see your work to enjoy it? Contacts are dangerous with the way that debris can get behind them and besides that, I think my glasses make me look smart.
[The statement leaves a slight flush of pride in his cheeks, Roark rubbing the back of his head and causing his long, crimson colored hair to bounce slightly below his shoulders. Satisfied with the moment, he continues.]
Wearing more than one layer is a smart move, especially when you're working with heavy equipment in unstable conditions. Sharp edges tend to cut through your clothes, and you really don't want a lot of debris rubbing into an open wound.
[Unbuttoning his gray, short-sleeved work shirt for a moment, he shows off the black protective layer underneath.]
All my clothes are made of a durable, weather-proof material that works great in any environment. The stripes aren't just there for show, either.
[Re-buttoning his shirt, Roark brushes the golden pattern around his cuffs before tugging at the large set along the bottom of his shirt's edge. The actions draw subtle attention to his arms, lean and well-developed.]
Not only do they label my rank as a Foreman, but they reflect light so that I'm easily visible to workers while they're mining. It makes finding a superior that much easier. I actually keep an extra set on my pants, too!
[Patting the stripes on his pockets, he pulls a bit on his gloves before looking down at them and giving a smile.]
Right! You've probably noticed that I'm wearing gloves. Not only is it important to protect your hands when handling mining equipment for long periods of time, but I use them to protect the fossils we unearth as well! It would be an absolute crime to damage such an important part of our history before it has a chance to be studied!
[His fists bunch together, voice taking on a passionate quality.]
I could never forgive myself if such unique and treasured examples of our past were to be ruined by something as simple as modern-day erosion and neglect for safety precautions! It would go against everything I've worked for and --
[He notices you staring again and immediately falls silent, tugging at his gloves again though in an apologetic manner and blushing quite openly.]
Sorry about that. I really do get carried away when it comes to the preservation of fossils and history in general.
[Looking down for a moment, his face brightens as he suddenly realizes that there is one important bit of equipment he's left out.]
Oh yes! I forgot to talk about my boots. They may not look like much, but they're one of the most important parts of the job. Mining footwear needs to be extremely thick and durable, and mine are certainly both. They even have an extra layer of support so that I can be on my feet all day without experiencing severe strain -- I'd highly recommend it!
[Digging the toe of one boot into the ground, he looks up proudly and puts his hands on his hips, giving you the impression that the lesson is finally over.][/ul]
My emotional disposition?
[He smiles politely once more before continuing.]
Of course, I can get carried away when it comes to my work, but the excavation of history is simply thrilling! To actually rediscover the pieces of our past and be able to study them firsthand...simply amazing. My Dad and I share the same passion, and our love for fossils might scare some, but a healthy enthusiasm for something so important is completely normal! I hope everyone feels the same way about something the way we do about fossils! I know my friends do! Steven has his stones and Riley...Riley likes to drink.
[His cheeks flush lightly, but he shakes it off with a smile.]
Speaking of alcohol, I've been told that I have a high tolerance. Not just for drinking, but for things in general. I can manage heavy work loads for long periods of time and things that tend to affect others more deeply than usual are manageable in my eyes. Dad says it runs in the family, and I believe in some ways I should be grateful. Still, I really don't mind as most of the time, I'm content within my own work.
[He shrugs before giving a light laugh.]
In many ways, mining holds more interest with me than a social life, but that doesn't mean that I'm a complete introvert! I may seem reserved around those I don't know at first, but I only wish to be polite. My friends have always told me that I have a big heart, and I tend to believe them. Dad can be a little tough on me about it, though. There's nothing wrong with being aware of your emotions! I think it makes you a better person...being able to understand the feelings of those around you. I want to be a good person.
[Nodding contentedly, he beams with a sense of personal pride and unintentionally lets slip a bit of natural innocence.]
[/ul]
Things that are Groovy:
☼ Rock Pokémon - They make strong, solid and dependable friends, plus they're incredibly handy to have while working in the mines!
☼ History - So many people take it for granted, and we wouldn't be who we are today without looking back to see where we've come from. It's so important to learn from your mistakes, but no one takes the time to do that anymore.
☼ Mining - It keeps you fit and in the right place to find all sorts of fossils!
☼ Reading - It's a great way to learn without getting your hands dirty.
☼ The Outdoors - It's incredibly refreshing to be outside! The smell of the grass, the feel of fresh dirt underneath your fingernails...why stay inside?
☼ Dedication - Without it, nothing matters. You have to be passionate about what you do!
☼ Teamwork - Life is about meeting all sorts of people and and learning to work together. I could never excavate an entire mine by myself!
☼ Strength - It feels good to know that you can take care of yourself.
☼ My Dad - He's loud, eccentric and loves fossils almost as much as I do. We've always been close, and I really look up to him for his strength and passion for life.
☼ Riley - One of my closest childhood friends. He always knows how to make me smile, and his constant protection and care reminds me almost of an older brother. I would do anything for him.
☼ Steven - My other closest childhood friend. His patience and mental strength are really something to look up to, and I am extremely grateful for his guidance and support. Like Riley, I would do anything for him.[/ul]
Things that aren't so Groovy:
☼ Mine Collapses - They're extremely dangerous and have the potential to harm both your men and your work. Always be on your guard and trust your instincts.
☼ Name Calling - I...I simply cannot stand this childish form of degrading other people. Please...continue. I have too many painful memories concerning this.
☼ Bullies - People can be so cruel. I will never understand why someone would want to physically harm another to make themselves feel good.
☼ Thieves - History belongs to everyone! How heartless that some only see it as a way to make easy money!
☼ Sloth - It feels good to be active, so those who sit around all day are really missing out.[/ul]
But...I'm afraid!
[Biting his bottom lip, he manages to ease into a tone of confidence.]
While I have managed to become a stronger and more mature individual, in many ways I still appreciate the support my friends and colleagues provide. Not that I fully rely on them. I just feel that, perhaps, I still give the impression that I need to be overly protected. Perhaps the notion is all in my head.
[He smiles once more, giving a soft nod of personal acknowledgment.][/ul]
I like to...
[He nods, smiling wider.]
They're just like people, you know -- every fossil is unique and beautiful, like an uncut gem. They all have their own voices, too, and I love taking the time to listen to each one. The stories they can tell you! ...And no, I'm not crazy! They really do talk! It just takes time and effort to learn their ancient language, but once you do...it's almost like going back in time...
[He beams, closing his eyes and looking completely at peace.]
Of course, I can't live in the mines
[His eyes reopen, the passion quelled though his happiness remains.]
While at home, I tend to do a lot of reading and outdoor hiking. I also enjoy taking part in my Gym battles -- they can get pretty intense sometimes![/ul]
My reason?
[His wide eyes and curious smile simply cause you to shake your head and chuckle, Roark having answered the question perfectly.][/ul]
Mandatory Angst:
I don't actually remember that much about Mom except what Dad has told me over the years and that she had red hair like mine. She left when I was very young and our family was still living together in Oreburgh. Originally, I was told that Mom had gone on a long vacation, but I tend to get the feeling that she left because Dad had problems choosing between time with her and time in the mines.[/color]
[He scratches the back of his head awkwardly.]
You see, Dad was working my current job as the city's Gym Leader and a Foreman, and he was probably just as passionate about digging as ever! That is, until he got the call from Canalave to lead an elite mining team just offshore on Iron Island.
You can imagine how excited he was, and I was behind him the entire way! Back then, Dad was like a superhero to me. He was always walking around with that massive shovel and roaring at everyone about the things he loved most while showing off his muscles. He even wore a cape! I wanted to be just like him, and I think he really liked that! We were always doing things together and, for a while, he was a father and a best friend.
[He gives a wide smile, fists clenching with the sort of joy attributed to a much younger person.]
We moved to Canalave City at the end of the month once Dad found someone to replace him as Gym Leader. I was only three years old, but our relocation had already made one of the best decisions of my life. Our new neighbors were the Mizushimas and, once Dad found out that they had a son as well, everything was quickly and happily arranged. While he left during the day to mine on Iron Island, I would be allowed to stay home and spend time with their adopted son, Riley.
[He rubs the back of his neck, smiling wide.]
In that way and many others, Riley has always been like family to me. I love him like an older brother, and our meeting back then has cemented us together as lifelong friends. While I have trouble remembering exactly how our bond formed, I can tell you those first few years were happy ones. Riley and I spent almost all of our time together -- he even helped me to make the blanket I carried around into a cape just like my Dad's. I was so excited that I never took it off!
[The smile fades, Roark pulling at his gloves and suddenly looking very uncomfortable.]
Unfortunately, I never realized that my appearance would end up attracting the worst sort of attention imaginable.
[For a moment, he refuses to go on. Shoulders folding in upon themselves, his head hangs lower than usual and gives the impression of sheer hopelessness. Eyes glaze over in a manner of sadness before Roark lifts his head and rubs incessantly at the back of his neck, biting his lip in weakened frustration.]
My first experience with a bully came when I was only six years old. They don't take very well to glasses, sheet capes or an enthusiastic father. They feed off of everything different and good and right with the world and replace it with such incredible amounts of pain...
...
[He shakes his head, attempting to laugh through the subject.]
...I'm sorry. This is truly the one thing that I have the most trouble talking about. Years of name calling tend to leave a mark, and I remember becoming rather shy around those bigger than me. If Riley had not been there to help and support me...I don't know what would have happened. Then again, he wasn't the only one to protect me. Steven...
[The combination of both names seems to strengthen his attitude, face returning to a naturally rosy glow.]
Riley and Steven truly are the best of friends. Before Steven came to Canalave, however, Dad decided to introduce me to another friend -- one that made me understand why I wanted to spend the rest of my life studying fossils just like him...
Breaths coming in short, excited gulps, a squeal of joy suddenly rang through the warm afternoon air before two figures made their way into the spacious area behind the house.
"C'mon Daddy! I have to show you! I have to show you the rock Riley and I found!"
From the looks of things, one was in much higher spirits than the other, though the latter was far from being upset with the situation. Today was certainly quite the occasion for the younger of the pair, Roark turning around to flash his father a wide grin before laughing and trotting farther ahead. It was the weekend, and that meant time with Dad. Time away from the mines. Time just for them and, to make things even better, the seven year old believed in his heart of hearts that something he had recently discovered was worthy of the attentions of his greatest hero.
Heaving a large sigh and grounding the spade of his shovel deep into the soft dirt, Byron wiped his brow and smiled at the boy lost in his energetic actions. Patting one calloused hand across his hip, an eruption of laughter was suddenly given before the large miner bounded forward and scooped his son up into a fully muscled hug, squeezing him tight.
"Think you can get away from me THAT easily, boy? I'd like to SEE YOU TRY. HAHA!"
Wrapping his arms around Byron's large chest, Roark couldn't help but start to laugh all over again. Dad certainly had a way of making everything fun, and this was no exception! Giving a loud grunt of approval, Byron beamed down at Roark's rosy cheeks before quickly pulling the boy up and around to perch on his wide shoulders. Looking up at an awkward angle, a long smirk played across Byron's lips as tiny hands curled around his thick neck, Roark looking around from his new vantage point with wide, awestruck eyes.
"Now. How about you lead the way so we can GET THIS SHOW ON THE ROAD! You know I LOVE rocks!"
"Mmm!"
All it took was a note of approval and a quick point from Roark before Byron was pleasantly trudging forth in the direction shown with son in tow, dual capes blowing gently in the onshore sea breeze. As his son spent most of his time on the mainland, Byron trusted the boy enough to lead this exploration. Who knows? Perhaps the kid really did find something of interest! If not, he wasn't about to rain on any parades. Water was a troublesome thing anyways and flooded out all his best holes.
From atop his father's shoulders, Roark felt invincible. Pushing the brightly colored rim of his mining helmet away from wine-colored eyes, a slight gasp was given before both arms flew back and clutched tighter around Byron's neck. Well, almost invincible. When Dad got excited, the ride could get pretty bumpy. Giggling at the thought, it wasn't long before a familiar shape in the distance caught his gaze, a note of encouragement escaping his throat.
"Over there! The big one, Daddy. Do you see it?"
A gruff acknowledgment was given as Byron turned his head, eyes suddenly wide with excitement before both father and son were bounding over towards the area. Upon coming closer, however, it was clear that the 'rock' was no ordinary rock, but a massive boulder larger than even Byron himself and smoother than any natural stone. Kneeling down next to Roark's discovery, Byron carefully plucked the boy from his shoulders and put him down before running a thick palm across the stone, nodding to himself thoughtfully. Roark simply took in the scene with curious eyes, tilting his head so that his long red hair bounced playfully across his shoulders.
"Is...is it a good rock, Daddy?"
The question was enough to have Byron looking up from the boulder and, noting his son's expression, throwing his head back in a burst of explosive laughter.
"There's no such thing as a BAD rock, Roark and this rock...THIS ROCK IS FANTASTIC!"
Well that did it. Byron's reaction was enough to have Roark grinning from ear to ear, the boy beaming with pride and giving a laugh of intense joy and relief. Slapping his hand across the boulder's lightly speckled surface, the large man smiled back and nodded in afterthought.
"In fact, this rock is so PERFECT, I want YOU to take care of it for me!"
"Take...care of it? But how?"
The statement had truly thrown the boy off guard, Roark scratching the back of his head and looking up at his father with an expression of utter confusion. Sensing the need for an explanation, Byron gave a short huff and beckoned Roark over for lack of a better example. Placing his son's hand over the stone, he waggled a thick finger in his son's face and smiled.
"Rocks are like people, Roark. They need love and care and if you give it to them, they can tell you stories. Stories beyond your WILDEST IMAGINATION! Stories about places and things that people have NEVER SEEN! It's why I spend so much time in the mines AHAHAHA! You found this rock, didn't you? It's YOUR job to take care of it now and learn the STORY!"
As Byron pulled his own hand away, Roark found himself holding onto the massive rock just a little bit longer. Before he even knew it, arms were wrapping around the boulder just as far as they could go, the boy nuzzling up against its smooth surface with a loving smile plastered across his face. Breaking off the hug after a moment, Roark craned his neck up towards Byron, the man wearing a very proud grin and holding both hands upon his hips. Fists clenching tightly in determination, it was clear to see that the boy was not about to let his hero down.
"I'm gonna learn the story, Daddy! Just you wait!"
Byron could only smile wider, breaking off into an open-mouthed laugh of approval. Roark felt his chest pound faster and, smiling warmly in return, the boy looked even happier than before.
For the next two years, I kept my promise to Dad and cared for the rock that Riley and I had discovered. Through bullies and bad weather, I managed to visit nearly every day and desperately attempt to learn the story he had promised it would tell. Steven made sure that I never went back on my word.
[Smiling warmly, he takes a moment to explain and gestures vigorously with his hands.]
Stevie arrived in Canalave just a few short weeks after I made my promise, and we met when he was first introduced to Dad on Iron Island. Both of them had an interest in steel-type pokémon, and his father thought it would be a good idea for them to meet. He was very different back then, so uptight. Riley used to call him a priss.
[He can't help but laugh, shaking his head before continuing.]
But he became a loyal friend and worked so hard to protect me...just like Riley. When Stevie found out about my rock, he kept telling me how important it was 'not to shirk on responsibilities.' Riley told him not to be a nag, but he agreed that breaking a promise would be pretty bad. We all learned to trust each other and a few days before my tenth birthday, I learned the story behind my boulder -- it was actually a pokémon egg.
[Nodding with a sigh, his cheeks flush with inherent pride.]
Dad must have known all along that it would hatch when the time was right, and it was quite an exciting surprise to him when I came running home with a newly hatched Onix rumbling behind me. I was inspired from that day forth to care for rocks of all kinds, and my pokémon will always remind me how important it is to love and respect every piece of history I discover.
For the next few years, my life was full of daily adventures and deepening friendships. Riley, Stevie and I spent almost every waking minute together, the majority on Iron Island itself. We mapped out every inch of that giant rock and I had to be dragged out of the mines on more than one occasion. Everything was perfect until the time came for all of us to go our separate ways.
[He looks up and gives a small sigh, blinking calmly.]
I was thirteen when Steven left on his pokémon journey in a different region and soon after, Riley decided to leave as well. I wanted to go with him, but Dad put an end to that. I believe he made the right decision -- though my friends were gone, our distance allowed each of us to become stronger in ways that I could have never understood until now.
[Pausing for a moment, he smiles and continues.]
Dad received another call several months after Riley left Canalave requesting that he return to Oreburgh on the premise of a new discovery. By that time, I was working side by side with Dad in the mines and learning everything I could about the field. It was so incredibly fascinating and, when he got the notice, our combined excitement was utterly explosive. It was strange returning to a home you don't remember very well, but the mines made everything feel safe and comfortable. Being underground feels the same no matter where you live.
[With a wide grin, Roark's fists suddenly clench in excitement.]
But the discovery! A team dedicated to pokémon excavation had been formed in the years since we had been away and, with the help of leading scientists from the city museum, had managed to unearth and revive the fossilized remains of an ancient pokémon -- Cranidos! Before taking the project any further, it had been decided that an expert should be brought in to organize the mine work, someone fluent in both physical labor and hard-headed pokémon. Dad immediately accepted and when the team presented Cranidos to him as a gift, he passed the pokémon onto me. I was speechless.
[He looks at you for a moment, face saturated with joy and unable to continue for a moment. You find yourself smiling before he nods at your reaction heatedly in understanding.]
Cranidos has evolved by now, but he still remains one of the most important and valuable members of my team. Dad eventually unearthed his own fossil to be restored, and both of us worked for many years together to dig up as many fossils as we could! That is, until he decided to return to Canalave. Both the Oreburgh and Canalave Gyms had suddenly become vacant and, while I protested that he should simply reclaim his old title, the thrill of a new gym was probably just too much for him.
[He chuckles, shaking his head slightly.]
Dad has been living in Canalave ever since running the Gym and excavating fossils back on Iron Island. I had no problem taking over the mining excavations once he left and, at Dad's request, the Oreburgh Gym. I enjoy working with both, and I've been here ever since.[/ul]
Oh and by the way...
[He unfolds the object in his hands to reveal a soft, faded blanket, frayed at the edges and looking rather crushed around two corners from being constantly tied. Brushing a bit of dust off the pink fabric, he smiles.]
I guess you could say this is my own little piece of history. I've had it ever since I was little, and it grew up with me right along with Riley and Steven. I...don't think I could possibly ever get rid of it. You have to admit, it makes a great cape!
[He hesitates for a moment before rubbing his hand across it again, smiling wide and looking completely unafraid of the visual consequences.][/ul]
I'm just a proxy for...
[Roark immediately sits up, eyes alight.]
Please explain! Or is it something you suggest I see for myself?
Dragon: What do you think?
[As she raises an eyebrow, the man immediately springs out of his chair with a cry of excitement, giving Dragon a large hug before quickly making his way out of the room, presumably towards the mines. Watching him leave with a grin, Dragon turns to you and starts laughing.]
Dragon: Gets him every time~[/ul]
Here's some of their writing!
The worker's voice rang in echo across the quarry and only seemed to add to the pulsing excitement within his chest, boots pounding even faster across the rocky terrain. Fists clenching in exhilaration, the afternoon sunlight reflected off a bright red mining helmet lost in rapid motion, flashes of gold clinging to his uniform around the thigh and shoulder regions.
"Where is it? Where did you find it?"
The workers were used to it by now, that rush of emotion that Roark provided with every new discovery. In all honesty, it was contagious -- several men were already pawing the ground restlessly as the young Foreman finally arrived on the scene, a few breaking out into wide grins of approval. The miner in question pulled at his gloves, making a motion for Roark to follow and giving a grunt of restless acknowledgment.
"It was discovered about half a mile in -- nothing like we've ever encountered before. We need you to..."
But Roark was already running forward again, waving a hand in hurried gratitude and making his way towards the mine entrance. Rubbing the back of his neck for a moment, the worker gave a harrowing sigh before trotting after his supervisor and chuckling under his breath. That kid really did have the heart for this sort of thing -- just like his father.
Roark was already at the excavation site by the time he had arrived, kneeling down and attempting to even out his breathing in the thin air provided from the underground environment. Adjusting the small lamp on his helmet towards a specific area in the wall, one hand reached out and tentatively ran along an exposed curve of stone. A few moments were spent brushing away debris and observing the areas beneath before Roark sat back and smiled, cheeks flushing in pride and nodding to himself.
"This is quite the find you have here. I've never seen a formation like this! Both fossils are perfectly preserved inside one another, and the position suggests something I've never even considered about ancient pokémon! What this could mean for our project, for the museum!..."
The shaky excitement in Roark's voice could have brought down the entire shaft had his voice been made of something more explosive. Turning around to face the original worker, he quickly stood and pointed back towards the entrance.
"Please, assemble your best team and have them down here immediately! Bring the thinnest pick axe we have and be prepared to work carefully. We can't damage these fossils at any cost!"
"Of course, Roark!"
Giving a nod of acknowledgment and turning to make his way back towards the main tunnel, a gentle murmur caught the man's attention and forced him to turn back. His supervisor was softly kneeling down next to the fossils again, face completely relaxed and full of wonder. Placing the rim of his helmet and one gloved palm against a sturdy portion of the wall, Roark closed his eyes and gave a large smile, simply listening to the sounds of the mine around him and sighing contentedly.
Watching for a moment, the worker gave a halfhearted smile before leaving his supervisor in peace, too far down the tunnel to register the softly spoken question as Roark's hand traced the fossilized remains once more.
"...And what story do you have to tell?"[/ul]
