Faolan knew that he was being harsh with Lucien and that this was the wrong time, but this had suddenly become personal for him and he wasn't easily able to hide his anger. Of all people, Lucien would understand and forgive, though that did not give him a right to lash out at the Frenchman. He would have to apologize when they were all feeling a little better.

With a nod, he accepted Lucien's plan and made his way back to the bus. He did not go inside, knowing that Illyana was crying and that Aurel was doing his best to put on a brave face for her. He didn't want to leave the young man alone, but he didn't want to let Lucien out of his sight either, just in case. Aurel would be okay, if a little uncomfortable. He leaned against the bus and took up his prior position, arms crossed, as he scanned the neighborhood for signs of life.

He waited patiently for Lucien to return, listening in on his conversation with the neighbor from afar. Though he couldn't hear everything perfectly, it was enough to confirm his suspicions. 

Faolan shrugged at Lucien's suggestions, then let out another sigh. This was hard for him, deciding what to do. With Aurel it had been easier. The boy had wanted to be with them and needed hardly any convincing. Even if he had wanted to leave, he had no home to return to. The girl had a home, a family somewhere out there in the world...she had options, and they would have to do what was best for her while still honoring her wishes. 

[color=a36209]"For now, yes, we need to know exactly what happened. Anything she can tell us could help us get a look at the whole picture." [/color]He paused as he looked back at the house, [color=a36209]"But I still think looking inside is worth a shot. What if they left some mail behind, a bill, a title? It could have their new address on it. If they left in a hurry, its more likely that they forgot something they thought was insignificant."[/color] Although he was confident that his argument was sound, he wanted Lucien's blessing before taking any action. He had never undermined his beloved and he wasn't about to start now.

Illyana felt like time was simply dragging on and on. There was nothing before her but confusion and nothing behind her but pain now...what was she supposed to do? Where was she supposed to go? Would she ever seen Isabella again? Was she scared and lonely, just like her twin?

The touch of the serpent broke her from her thoughts, which was good because they weren't making her feel any better. Though she did not react to the contact outwardly, she did not pull away either. It was somewhat comforting knowing that the animal could feel that she was in pain. Even without words, they were more intuitive than any person the girl had ever met.