Shard was surprised, embarrassed, and shocked at the same time. Her eyes widened, and her face lit up in a bright blush. "O-oh, thank y-you" she stuttered.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I was confused, "Why? You aren't mad at me for me crossing the line?". I figured that she was thankful that I cheered her up, but I thought I went too far.

Shard hugged Darkos close, and purred softly, something she had not done for a long time.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I blinked as I felt Shard hugging me, and I hesitated, hearing Mother's distant voice to respect boundaries, then I sighed lightly as I heard her soft purr, feeling it rumble, then I smiled softly, hugged her back, realizing that I needed it as she did.

Shard nuzzled Darkos gently, and closed her eyes happily. "Night.". She said.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I grinned at that, kissed her forehead softly, whispered, "Night, my Shard.". I closed my eyes as we nuzzled and snuggled together, falling asleep.

Night went fast and well, and I woke up to sunlight, seeing Shard, and I admired her features as I moved slightly, then kissing her softly on the cheek. 'I wouldn't mind seeing her in the mornings, so beautiful.' Her purple dress rustled as she slowly woke up, her ice blue eyes blinking, and I whispered, "Morning, beautiful.".

Shard's ice blue eyes flickered open, and took a while for her eyes to light up with their usual spark and energy "Urg...Morning, Darkos.". She groaned softly, rubbing her eyes

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I smiled softly at her beautiful voice greeting me, and spoke,"We should get going, yes?". Shard smiles back, and hugged Darkos close before nodding and getting down from the flower, landing on the ground.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I sighed lightly as there was still warmth from Shard's hug, it was like she's a perfect fit for me. Shaking my head from a daydream, I climbed down, noticing the rest of the gang waking up and climbing down their respective ropes. I and Shard was the only ones that climbed the stem to our tulip and vice versa. Beta spoke, "I am starved. Let's grab breakfast on the go, guys!" Selenia sighed, "Alright."

Shard jumped a bit as she was awakened from her daydreaming as well, but quickly calmed herself down, and nodded. "Ok, let's go then.". She said.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

We got into walking while grabbing larva eggs, some milkweed, and pieces from a tuber root. Shard was behind me, talking with Thorn, with the others at front. I wish I know what they are talking about.

Meanwhile, Thorn shrugged helplessly, "Sorry about stopping your first date before it even begun. You looked happy when I saw you through the bistro window. You must hate me for that.".

Shard shook her head. "No, it's fine, I understand your reasoning.". She said, smiling warmly.

Thorn sighed, "I want to help, but how?". Then a idea struck her. Glancing ahead to see Darkos far ahead, out of hearing range. She smirked, "How do you feel about a re-date? We'll be in Apokolips by tomorrow, so we got a free night tonight.".

Shard seemed really happy. "That would be awesome.". She said, her tail wagging happily, and her eyes sparkling with happiness again.

Thorn smiled brightly, "Great! I gonna get Selenia to help me stir up a new dress for you. Yes, the purple dress is gorgeous, but it's old news already. Why don't you distract Darkos with a conversation or something while we're walking, yeah?".

Shard nodded. "Alright!" She chirped, trying to calm herself down as her tail wagged happily.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I heard a excited giggle from Thorn. I smiled, figuring that Shard had said something good or funny. I looked ahead to see Selenia and Beta squabble, and I frowned, and froze as I did something Mother once taught me, and I often used it if I am concerned about any surroundings around me.

I heard footsteps behind me, and I glanced back in the corner of my eye to see Shard coming up to my side, looking both concerned and curious. I gave a small smile to reassure her that I am fine.

Shard smiled back, and looked away a bit before looking back. "So, how are you today?". She awkwardly asked, holding her arm with her hand, and wrapping her tail around herself.

(Darkos' P.O.V.)

I glanced ahead after I heard her question. Selenia and Beta are still squabbling. "I am well, and in case if you're wondering, I am observing our surroundings. I am using a skill to help with that.". I answered gently yet quietly.