One second...two seconds…

Dunban stared. Green light emitted from Soren's hands, streaming into Melia's glowing body.

Three seconds...four seconds…

The light burned brighter and Soren strained, his hands trembling as the currents grew ever larger.

Five seconds...

Green reverberated in the small space, filling Dunban's eyes so he could see nothing else. Then slowly the green blanched into white light. Blinding, scorching. He shut his eyes, the stinging stabbing his brain.

Silence.

Six seconds...seven seconds…

Beep…...beep…...

Eight seconds.

Beep…..beep…...beep.

Carefully, Dunban opened his eyes. The searing light was gone; everything the same. Almost.

It was then his ears focused on the sounds. The beeping. His chest tightened with recognition: Melia's monitors. They were no longer emitting a single, dead tone. There were several beeps, one after the other. The sounds of life.

Hopeful, his eyes swept towards Melia's prone body. Her chest rose and fell in a secret rhythm. She was breathing.

She was alive.

He exhaled the breath he didn't know he held. His heart leaped in his chest, buoyed by an explosion of...joy. Relief. Gratitude. His world had stopped, and now it was starting again.

Though he wished to give all his attention to her, Dunban refocused on Soren. Still, the High Entia's eyes were closed and his hands hovered above his daughter's chest. The creases in his forehead and the wrinkles by his eyes revealed the continuous struggle. Whatever he had done had brought Melia back from the brink of death, but hurt the Emperor in the process.

The creak of the door alerted Dunban and he snapped his gaze over his shoulder. Kallian hesitated and stepped across the threshold, a combination of hope and fear floating in his eyes as he looked upon his father and sister.

Dunban turned back to the patient bed to see the older man slump against the back of his chair, his hands falling to his knees, his shoulders sagging as well. Soren took a deep, labored breath, and a small groan emitted from his cracked lips. The High Entian doctor rushed to his side and began sweeping his monitoring device across Soren's form.

"Father?" Kallian asked, taking a few steps forward, pausing in line with Dunban.

"I'm fine," Soren managed, pushing himself to sit up in the small chair.

"What...did you do?" Dunban asked.

"I restarted her body." He allowed the doctor to place a blood pressure monitor on his arm and continued, "You Homs rely on oxygen to keep your hearts going and your brain surviving. We rely on a substance called ether. Similarly invisible to the naked eye, but just as vital."

Dunban remembered what Melia had told him of ether, and how it facilitated the High Entians' magical abilities.

"There was an imbalance of ether in her system." Dunban pieced together. "You fixed it."

"Correct," Soren leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

"That was powerful magic you did, father." Kallian murmured.

"It was necessary."

"I could've done it."

"No. Not to the degree that was required. And I need you alive." Soren huffed as the doctor finished the examination.

Dunban glanced at Kallian in his periphery. Was that a powerful enough spell to kill him?

"Your Highness, you require rest." The doctor stated. Although Soren gave him a withering look, the doctor did not flinch. To be Soren's doctor, one had to have a backbone. It appeared that this High Entia was no doubt up to the task.

"So be it." Soren struggled to rise to his feet. The doctor reached out to help him, but Soren shooed the High Entia away. "I am not an invalid. I can stand."

"I'll take you back to our quarters." Kallian volunteered, taking a step forward.

"No. You stay with your sister. Dunban will escort me."

Dunban raised an eyebrow. He would've much preferred to stay with Melia, especially if she was going to wake soon.

"She'll be here when you get back. She's certainly not going anywhere," Soren snorted at Dunban's expression. "Consider this an exercise in diplomacy."

He could give a shit about diplomatic relations at the moment. But he knew better than to let his personal disgust interfere with the good of NLA. Though it was certainly interfering with his personal desires.

He forced himself to ignore the push and pull inside his heart. He had responsibilities.

Soren leveled his gaze, waiting, and Dunban nodded, resigned. The Emperor went for the door and Dunban maneuvered his way around to open it for the Emperor. Silently, they exited the patient room one after the other.

"Knowing my daughter, she'll wake just when we arrive back at my quarters," Soren grunted as they strolled down the hallway.

"She wouldn't do it to spite you," Dunban narrowed his eyes at the High Entia. Of course, he would malign his daughter while she lay on her death bed. The High Entia was a different kind of despicable.

"No, she wouldn't." Soren sighed. "That would be her sister. In this case, it would be more a matter of irony."

Dunban didn't respond. He still hadn't forgiven the Emperor for sending Melia out into the Noctilum wilderness alone and resourceless. If Soren hadn't, Melia wouldn't have almost died.

"What is my daughter to you?" Soren inquired as the doors to the concourse slid open and they stepped out of the clinic.

That put Dunban on his guard.

"She is my ally."

"Do not take me for a fool, boy," Soren grunted.

Dunban clenched his jaw. "I am no boy."

"In your culture, you are not. But when you have lived for as long as I have, then you may think differently."

"With all due respect, your highness," Dunban strained to keep himself from snapping, "I may not have lived as long as you, but I have witnessed the genocide of my people too."

Soren turned to him, his eyes cold. Dunban could see that he was being assessed. Let him. Dunban had nothing to hide. And would not apologize for his words.

"You think my leadership is flawed."

"I haven't known you for a long enough time to make a fully informed judgment." Dunban gazed up into the clear blue sky. Impatience simmered hot in his gut. He wished this conversation would be over as quickly as it had begun.

"But judged you have."

"My opinion doesn't matter."

Soren laughed, the sound dripping with cynicism. "You certainly like to dance around things."

"My priority is making our alliance work."

"What you say to me now has no bearing on the treaty that will be signed between our peoples before I leave." He stopped, forcing Dunban to also, and meet his probing stare. "Tell me, Dunban. What do you think of me?"

It was a zero-sum game. Either he humored the Emperor and still risked his wrath, or he played it diplomatically and incurred the Emperor's ire. The third option would be to downright lie, but given his own distaste of the entire situation, Dunban doubted he could pull it off.

He hated politics. And this was politics.

"Melia puts her duty to her people — to you — above all else and yet you seem to punish her."

"I am strengthening her will."

"I don't think she sees it that way. Or Tyrea. Or Kallian for that matter."

There was a slight movement in Soren's eyes at Kallian's name. Was that a surprise?

The Emperor resumed their journey, Dunban keeping pace beside him. "Now I will ask you again. What is my daughter to you?"

Dunban creased his lips into a line. "She is my friend." Why did everyone insist on asking this question?

Soren raised an eyebrow. "You can't seriously expect me to believe that. Not after your actions led to your demotion, which I'm sure you knew would happen in some capacity when you left NLA to rescue my daughter."

"What you believe about our relationship is not my concern."

"It is when it involves my daughter."

"If you were concerned about your daughter, you would've sent out a search party for her the minute that she went missing." Dunban snapped, stopping in front of the BLADE tower.

"There was hardly enough evidence to determine she had been captured." The Emperor countered, his cold stare enough to send chills down the strongest soldier's spine. But not Dunban's. Not when he burned hot with rage.

"But she had. And if we hadn't gone at Tyrea's urgency, then she would be dead."

The truth hung in the air between them, heavy and oppressive. Dunban's eyes blazed. He could barely keep his temper contained. The fact that Soren couldn't accept his mistake, accept the fact that he left his daughter to die because of his pride, fueled a vengeful fire within Dunban. Soren didn't deserve to lead the High Entia. He didn't deserve to have Melia as a daughter.

The frigidity in Soren's gaze melted to one of slight sorrow. "You're right. I owe you a great debt, Dunban." Soren relented. "You saved my daughter. As you have pointed out, my desire to ensure that she is strong for our people almost cost her her life. And that is unacceptable."

Dunban didn't respond. He knew he ought to be surprised, but the man could only feel skeptical. Was he supposed to believe the Emperor really did regret his inaction? He had to be careful. This could be some new manipulation.

"You're not going to gloat?"

"I don't think this is a gloating matter," Dunban replied neutrally, activating the motion sensor and waiting for the tower doors to open.

"You are smart," Soren smirked. "A lesser man would've professed his moral superiority."

"I don't pretend to think I know what's best." The doors slid open and they walked in, heading towards the elevators.

"The words of a soldier." Soren clasped his hands behind his back. "I owe you my thanks. I know that Melia is in good hands."

"Excuse me?"

"With you. I can see how you look at her. I can only imagine how she looks at you." He mused. The elevator door slid open. "We'll speak again, Dunban."

The door closed, leaving Dunban somewhere between annoyed, pissed, and unsettled. No doubt that was Soren's design, to keep him disturbed. Though based on his observations of the Emperor, he couldn't imagine ever leaving an interaction with him where Dunban would feel comfortable. Dunban shook his head and exited the tower.

His communicator buzzed in his pocket and he pulled it out. It was Fiora.

Melia's awake.

No sooner had he read those words was he heading back to the clinic. He laughed. Soren had been right. She awoke as soon as he retired. The irony. Though was it irony or karma?

When he arrived in Melia's room, Kallian and Tyrea sat on both sides of her bed, the High Entian doctor huddled around the monitors, and Fiora stood off to the side with Shulk and Reyn. Melia's eyes fluttered between her siblings, listening to the conversation that was conducted in whispers.

Knocking, he found everyone's attention land on him, including Melia's. She was pale and her eyes were tired, but a smile turned up the corners of her lips.

He was across the room in two seconds and next to Kallian before she spoke. "Dunban."

Opening his mouth, he tried to respond but his mind was blank; his nerves taking any and all words he'd prepared on his jog over and erasing them.

Tyrea rolled her eyes and snorted. "Okay, everyone out."

Shulk, Reyn, and Fiora exited without argument. The High Entian doctor ignored the command and took a sample of Melia's blood despite Tyrea's death glare. Eventually, the doctor was satisfied and left.

Last was Kallian, who hadn't moved from his position next to his sister. He and Tyrea appeared to be locked in a silent battle of wills via a staring contest, which was broken when Tyrea decided that physical force was needed and pulled him out of the room.

"Don't do anything strenuous," Tyrea winked.

Melia balked with as much energy as she could muster but Dunban simply looked at the High Entian woman unamused. With a cackle, Tyrea sauntered out, hitting the frost function on the door's keypad, making the room's glass wall opaque so no one could see inside.

"I apologize for her," Melia flushed, shaking her head.

"No need." He murmured, dropping into the chair next to her bedside. "At least, not for that."

She averted her eyes and began fidgeting with her hands. "You speak of Ellison."

Tyrea had been right. Without the extra attention, the things he wished to say came flooding back. Of course, he only wanted to express his relief at her wellbeing. But if he was being honest, he was frustrated. He had been terrified. And a small part of him was still angry.

"All of it, Melia." He responded, not bothering to keep the sternness out of his voice. "You overdosed yourself, for one. Then kept the extent of your injuries from us. Went into battle aware of how weak you were, and then you called your brother, who could've killed you."

"I must admit it was...unwise." She looked down at her hands.

He breathed, and the anger pulled back, an inner voice reminding him of the ordeal she'd just endured. "You almost died." He said, quietly. He placed a finger under her chin to drag her eyes back to his. "And I could've prevented it if I knew."

"I cannot apologize for it, Dunban. It was necessary." Though she was tired, she stared back at him with defiance, unflinching.

"You weren't well enough for battle."

"The only way we could get through the radiation was by using my spell."

"We would have found another way."

"You cannot know that. And even if you had, the Ganglion could have taken the VITA before we had a chance to procure it."

Grunting, he stared at her, refusing to break eye contact. He locked his jaw, feeling an overwhelming urge to reprimand her and inform her in painful detail how her near-death had impacted her family and friends. However, now was not the time. He would make her see sense later.

"We can argue about that another time."

"I look forward to it," she responded with a lazy smile.

He snorted. He pushed those emotions to the side, relief taking over. He took her hand in his. "I don't know what I would've done if you died."

"I am sorry for causing you pain," she whispered, interlocking her fingers with his. "Truly."

There was something in the tone of her voice that filled him with longing, superseding any other emotion he felt. Something that pulled at the strings of his heart. "Melia…" he struggled, a lump forming in his throat.

"I'm so sorry."

He leaned forward and kissed her. He seized her lips with his, desperate, yearning, hungry. He needed her. Needed to feel her and confirm she was alive, she was well, and his worst nightmares had not come true.

"Dunban," she breathed between kisses. The way she said his name lit a fire within him, and he all but took her in his arms. But he forced himself to slow down, not lose himself in his desire.

Then she yawned.

He pulled back and she blushed, her cheeks turning red. "I apologize."

"Don't. I should let you rest." He laughed.

"I'll…" She hesitated, then continued, "See you tomorrow?"

The vulnerability etched on her face was enough to make his heart churn in his chest. She wasn't one to reveal weakness.

He wrapped her into an embrace and whispered, "Nothing will keep me away."

Though she had slept through the night, she wouldn't have called it restful or fitful. Her dreams were disturbing, too confusing to be nightmares, but nothing that evoked a sense of safety or joy. They were a slideshow of images, a constant rotation of her time on Mira, flashes with Ellison before he became a Telethia, bits with Dunban, moments in the heat of battle.

When she broke from her sleeping state, a river of relief surged through her, despite the grogginess. Hopefully, her current circumstances would feel nothing like her dreams. Forcing herself to sit up, she rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Tyrea was resting in the chair next to her bed at an uncomfortable angle. The sight warmed her heart.

She didn't deserve her sister's loyalty.

"You're awake." The statement captured her attention. Kallian walked in. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm alright." She responded, managing a smile.

"As much as I want to speak with you, Father is on his way." He grimaced and nudged Tyrea.

"What?" She complained, blinking before finally opening her eyes. "What do you want?"

"Father is on his way."

"I don't give a shit what your father wants," Tyrea grumbled. She glanced over at Melia and jumped straight up. "You're finally awake!" Then coughed to cover up her excitement, crossing her legs and arms over her chest with a sniff. "Good. I was wondering if I was going to have to unplug your machines to wake you up."

"Tyrea," Kallian scolded.

Melia chuckled. "I'm glad you are both here."

"And we will return after father visits." Kallian gestured to the exit, his eyes flicking to Tyrea. "Let's not cause Melia undue stress."

"Like she already caused us?"

Melia frowned. Her stomach folded into knots.

"You know you deserve that." Tyrea set her mouth into a grim line.

"I didn't do it on purpose."

"Of course not." Tyrea rose, brushing loose strands of hair out of her face. "We're still going to fight about it later." She pushed Kallian towards the door. "Good luck, sister. Just nod and smile at the old, angry birdman." She snickered and they exited, Kallian berating her for the slight.

Melia fell back against her pillow, her mind beginning to turn. What did her father want? She should feel nervous, but all she felt was...weary. No doubt he was going to ask her about Ellison and how she got herself captured and comb over every detail of the past week. She would admit to him that it was her fault, her carelessness that led to her capture, her recklessness with her health, and then she would endure his displeasure.

How exhausting.

A better use of her time would be to study the VITA. She had no idea if they had learned anything about the device during the time she was unconscious. Perhaps she could have asked Dunban the previous day but...it was the last thing on her mind during their conversation.

Dunban. She was certain he was relieved she was recovering. His affection had warmed her, comforted her, and made her feel safe. Nonetheless, he'd made it known that he was upset with her. She hoped they would be able to work through it.

"Melia."

Pulled from her thoughts, Melia met her father's eyes as he strode into the room. She flinched under his penetrative gaze. The interrogation had begun.

"Father."

"You are recovering well." He took the seat that Tyrea had occupied.

"Thank you father," She answered. Sitting up, she placed her hands in her lap and proceeded. "I understand that you have saved my life. I am humbled—"

"That's enough." He cut her off with a dismissive wave. "Your life is important, regardless of what you may think of my expectations."

Melia strained to not fidget. She was grateful. It wasn't a lie.

He sighed. "Melia...I have put undue pressure on you and your brother and your sister. You wouldn't have been captured had I not sent you into the wilderness alone and essentially unarmed."

Was she hallucinating? Was her father admitting that he had made a wrong decision?

"I stand by my reasons. You must prove yourself in order to become a viable heir to the empire. But the way in which that can be achieved can be different." He concluded.

"Do you already have an alternative trial in mind, father?" Melia kept her face neutral, though her heart skipped a beat in nervous anticipation.

"You have grown close to these humans, haven't you?"

"I...have befriended some of them," Melia admitted.

"That is good. Do you believe they will give us access to the lifehold? Once it is recovered?"

"Why is that so important to you?"

The probability he would tell her the truth was low, but she felt bold after her near-death experience. Her father still wore an imposing air that frightened her, but the fear was lesser than the concern.

Soren crossed one leg over the other. "I believe that the Homs have information that could erase the Telethia Gene." He stated. "If we had access, we could develop a gene therapy to eliminate it from our race entirely."

Freedom.

"That's...amazing!" Melia gasped, doing her best to temper her excitement. "I'm certain they would help us if we asked."

He narrowed his eyes at her. "Do not be blinded by your apparent affection, daughter. How would they see us if they knew we could become monsters? Do you really believe they wouldn't turn on us?" He reprimanded. "I know you told Dunban."

She looked away, awash with guilt.

Then annoyance. Why should she feel guilty? She trusted Dunban. He had earned that trust twice over and was the first person she trusted outside of her siblings in years. The first friend of any kind she had outside her own race. The fact that her father questioned her judgment on this matter didn't make her embarrassed. Instead, it made her angry.

"Of course I wish you hadn't. But he is honorable, and I'm sure it helped you gain his trust." Soren stroked his chin.

"I didn't tell him to make him indebted to me." She glared, meeting his severe gaze.

"No, you did not. Your emotions are getting in the way of your objectiveness." She opened her mouth to retort but he put up a hand. "As I said, what is done is done. We must keep the Telethia gene a secret from the others. We cannot tell them nor what we need from their lifehold."

"What if they ask our reason for access?"

"You're intelligent, Melia. You will find an excuse."

"You wish for me to lie to our allies." The revelation was bitter on her tongue. How dare he place this responsibility upon her.

"You will continue to cultivate the relationship with the Homs so that when the time comes, they will happily give us access to the lifehold data without a thought."

"You realize the irony of attempting to build trust while we deceive."

"What is the alternative?" He shrugged.

How could he be so blasé about this?

"What is your relationship with Dunban?" The Emperor uncrossed and recrossed his legs and tilted his head to the side to continue studying her.

"Um…" This clearly was a trick question. But she couldn't reason what exactly the trick was. Her mind wasn't moving as fast as she wanted — needed — it too. Still recovering. Her father was using that to his advantage.

"I'd say use your judgment but it has been flawed these past weeks so all I will say is make sure that you do not get pregnant."

"Father!" Melia's cheeks flamed and her shriek echoed in her ears. She had no idea her voice could go so high.

"Also. You are forbidden to reveal any other High Entia secrets to him. Other than those necessary."

"I will be careful, father, but you cannot dictate how I will conduct myself in my friendships." She could hardly believe what she was hearing. Was he serious?

"I can make your sister's life harder though."

Melia swallowed. Of course, he knew her weakness.

"Why do you do that?" She questioned, her voice just above a whisper.

Soren looked at her as if he were looking at a petulant child. "I am first and foremost the Emperor of the High Entia. My duty is to our entire race, which includes you. I make decisions that will either benefit or hurt our people. In this regard, it is not necessary for you to love me, even though I am your father. What is necessary is that you obey me so that I can ensure the best future for us."

"Do you love me?" She asked, her tone somewhere between demanding and desperate.

A flicker of something passed over Soren's face, uncertainty perhaps, but it was gone in an instant. Melia waited, watching him with bated breath as the silence dragged on.

Knock knock.

Soren broke eye contact first. She looked down at her hands. They were trembling.

"Father, it's time," Kallian said, taking a step into the room.

"We are finalizing our treaty with the Homs. I'm sure you'll be happy to hear that, Melia." Soren announced.

She didn't look up.

"Mind yourself, daughter. We'll talk soon."

And they left.

The door closed. Melia fell back against her pillow for the second time that morning. How dare her father make her some sort of spy. The Homs had been nothing but kind and generous in their care of her. They had welcomed her in their initial treaty meetings. Of course, they had been on their guard as with any fledgling alliance, but they all appeared committed to creating a strong diplomatic foundation (with the exception of Maurice but there was no point in counting him). And now her father wanted her to repay their generosity by lying to them.

She hated him. Despite everything he'd ever done to her, that was a first. She tried not to hate anyone. There were only two people in the universe she hated.

Now there were three.

"Did he threaten you with imprisonment or something?"

Melia rolled her head to the side to see Tyrea glide in and take the now vacant seat next to her.

"No. But it is a kind of imprisonment in itself."

"Son of a bitch."

Melia flicked her gaze back to the ceiling.

"You're not going to scold me?"

"I'm not sure that I should," Melia answered, her voice low.

"Oh now, this I must hear." Tyrea leaned forward, propping her elbows up on the side of the bed and dropping her chin into her upturned palms. "What exactly did he tell you that earned this small rebellion?"

"I don't wish to speak of it."

Tyrea pouted. "But I've dreamed of this moment."

With a sigh, Melia rolled to face her sister. "Another time."

"Alright, fine," Tyrea sniffed and collapsed into the chair. "What shall we talk about then?"

"Catch me up on everything that happened after I fainted."

"You mean after you almost died," she said flatly.

Melia shrugged. It seemed she wouldn't be escaping her sister's admonishment. "Tyrea, it was the only chance we had."

"You don't know that."

"Did you have any other ideas of how to win over the Ganglion and the monsters?"

Tyrea folded her arms over her chest and scowled.

"I don't mean to be rude, but it was the only option," Melia said. She felt like she was repeating herself. Actually, she was. She'd already had this conversation with Dunban. Why couldn't they see what she had done was necessary?

"Whatever." Tyrea huffed. "So Ellison flew away and then the team used their skells to get you out and back to NLA. They tried to revive you but you wouldn't wake up. They put you on life support. You didn't respond so finally your father came out here to wake you up."

"I'm sorry I worried you."

"You damn well better be." Tyrea hissed, her eyes glassy. "What if you died Melia? Did you think about that? What would I do without you?"

"I'm so sorry, Tyrea." Melia sat up and took her sister's hand. She was surprised when Tyrea didn't jerk back.

They were silent for a minute, the gravity of their experience, and the what-if weighing upon them. Melia wished she could provide further comfort for Tyrea. But she was at a loss of what to say or do.

"Anyway, I basically lived in here until your father came and then he kicked me out yesterday." Tyrea spat.

"What!?" Melia gasped.

"You heard me. Dunban was here as much as he could be. But…" Tyrea blinked away the tears, pulling her hand back to her lap.

"But what?"

"They kicked him off the BLADE council."

"You can't be serious."

"Yeah. Unsanctioned mission blah blah blah. From what Fiora said, Maurice just turned everyone against him, claiming he's some sort of hot head and doesn't prioritize NLA's security."

The anger blooming within her was unlike anything she'd ever experienced before. She was...furious. A red heat burned through her, scorching her insides.

"That moronic imbecile! As soon as I am well I will speak to them and ensure that they rectify this foolish mistake immediately."

"As much as I'm sure he'd appreciate the sentiment, I don't think he'd want you to do that."

"I have to do something! He is in this mess because of my mistakes." Melia exclaimed.

"Calm down," Tyrea ordered. "You should be resting. If the doctor finds out you're getting worked up I'll get kicked out again."

Melia grunted, then fell back into the pillows for a third time. She was tired of this bed-prison.

"But that man is infatuated with you for certain. Congratulations! As these Homs say, 'you've got him whipped'." Tyrea winked.

"I do not and I would ask you to refrain saying such things. It makes me uncomfortable." Melia frowned. She didn't want that to be the case or appear to be the case. She wanted Dunban to be her partner.

"I'm just teasing. Don't take it so personally."

It occurred to her that Tyrea was voluntarily offering information on Dunban. Which could only mean one thing. "I am glad you like him." Melia smiled.

"I didn't say that!" But the mischievous glint in Tyrea's eyes said it all.

"He didn't mention the demotion yesterday."

"Why would he? He wanted to focus on you."

"How is he taking it?"

"As best as you can expect."

"He's angry." Melia knew of Dunban's anger. She had been the unknowing target of it once. But she knew that had only been a small sliver of what Dunban kept chained within him.

Now there was more fuel to his fire. And she was the reason.

"Don't do that." Tyrea glared. "He doesn't blame you."

"If you say so." But the anxiety had already taken root. There was nothing she could do though, other than apologize. She hoped he would accept it.

"I think he's eager to get you alone again. Go on one of your 'walks'." Tyrea wiggled her eyebrows.

Melia blushed. "All we do is talk."

"And…."

Melia pursed her lips. "I am not having this conversation with you."

"I am your sister. It is my right to know something!" Tyrea insisted.

Truth be told, Melia did wish to share something about her budding romance with Dunban. And Tyrea was truly her best and only friend. Chewing the inside of her cheek, Melia fidgeted with her hands. "We've kissed."

"That's it?"

"No need to trivialize it." Melia huffed.

"So tame, sister. So tame." Tyrea patted Melia's knee. "Well, when you need to have the talk…."

Melia rolled her eyes. "I need to rest now."

"A likely excuse, but one I will allow." Tyrea laughed. "Sweet dreams." And she skipped out of the room.

Closing her eyes, the High Entia felt an oncoming wave of fatigue. The subject of her relationship with Dunban had been brought up twice this morning. She could only wonder how many times the topic had been broached to Dunban since their return to NLA. She wasn't even conscious and she caused him grief.

How would that impact their fragile relationship? The question looped through her mind and tightened her chest. Would he pull away from her? No, he wouldn't. Was that true? Or was she simply comforting herself?

Thoughts and fears collided into one another, morphing into monsters that crowded her mind. If she was a distraction from his duties, that was an issue as well. The last thing she wanted to do was force him to choose between his responsibility to his people and her. If she had to take a step back, she would.

She desperately hoped that wouldn't be the case.

What she truly desired was to take a step forward. But now she was ostensibly spying for her father. What did that mean for her relationship with Dunban?

She had no answer.

Two days passed. Two days of errand running, cadet training, and intermittent visits with Melia. Although he was thrilled that Melia's recovery was steady, it seemed every time he visited, there were others there as well. Suffice it to say, he was excited about her discharge from the clinic soon so they could be alone together. Completely selfish he knew, but he allowed it. Especially since he was hoping to address what exactly was happening between the two of them. It seemed like the time since she'd nearly died.

First, he had to get through the treaty signing. It was boring and included speeches by not only Soren and Nagi but also Maurice — surprise, surprise — and Vera. When she had begun and claimed to be excited by the potential alliance, it took everything in Dunban's power not to call her out on her hypocrisy.

He knew better. He might be angry, but he wasn't an idiot.

Though he was uncertain of why his presence was required. He surmised it had to do with Soren. Maybe the High Entian had requested that he attend. If that was the case, Dunban wished he could have seen how red Maurice's face had turned.

As Soren finished signing the document, a smattering of applause burst forth from the audience of BLADE council members and the few guards that Soren had brought in his entourage. Kallian clapped, making eye contact with Dunban from the opposite corner of the room. He gave the man a slight nod. Dunban knew he should feel some sort of victory, but it was difficult knowing how precarious his own position was. Nonetheless, he knew that it was the first step in securing the alliance between their peoples and an important one. And for some reason, Soren had decided to overlook the council's censure of Dunban's unsanctioned mission to rescue Melia from the Ganglion. Perhaps he couldn't find it in himself to condemn the humans because he himself hadn't moved to save his own daughter.

Dunban snorted. Elma flicked her eyes to him, but no one else seemed to have heard.

God, he wanted to leave as soon as possible. Possibly take a turn at the shooting range afterward and then visit Melia.

"We look forward to this being a fruitful partnership." Nagi extended his hand towards Soren.

Soren nodded and accepted it. "I do as well, Commander." He pointedly did not look at Maurice to shake his hand.

Dunban smirked. At least there was something good to come from this meeting. Soren knew a snake in the grass when he saw one.

"We should discuss who will be your official liaison to the High Entian empire," Soren commented, holding his hands behind his back.

"We will most likely vote on it at a later time," Maurice interjected.

Soren eyed him with disgust. "It seems to me as there is an obvious choice. My daughter is the one who has had the most contact with your people, so she shall be our official ambassador. I would assume in that spirit, Dunban would fill the role as your ambassador."

Ah. Now he knew why Soren had requested him. Was the Emperor always pulling some sort of strings? Did he never rest from his puppet-master ways?

"Dunban is no longer a part of the BLADE council." Maurice ground his teeth.

"Perhaps. But the ambassador serves at the pleasure of the council. It doesn't seem to be a requirement that the ambassador is on the council." Soren reasoned.

"We will take that under advisement," Nagi said diplomatically.

Soren glanced at Dunban, and then back at Nagi. "As a sign of good faith to launch our alliance, I will send a small fleet of ten cruisers to NLA within the week with a team of engineers and they can upgrade your cruisers. They can also assist in decoding the VITA, which I am eager to learn more about as well."

Clever. The power play.

But why? Dunban couldn't figure out what Soren's game was. Did Melia know that her father had volunteered her for this post?

"It shall be done," Nagi said.

Dunban watched Maurice open his mouth to protest but Nagi's death glare caused him to think otherwise.

Soren turned to Dunban and smiled.

Whatever it was had begun.

A half-hour later, Dunban was finally able to escape. Instead of the shooting range, he headed for the clinic, impatient to fill Melia in on the happenings of the event. When he arrived though, he found Melia's room empty.

"Looking for the princess?"

Dunban spun around to see Vanea. Her black hair fell down her shoulders, a stark contrast to the whiteness of her doctor's coat. He could see the faint outlines of circles beneath her eyes.

"Yes. Is she alright?" His body tensed. Had she gotten sick again?

"She was discharged an hour ago. Their doctor deemed her safe to leave, as long as she limits physical exertion." Vanea shrugged. "They're regeneration capabilities are truly astounding. I would love to study them on a cellular level."

Dunban nodded absently, his mind already trying to figure out where Melia could be.

"She was escorted by her doctor to the Emperor's suite." Vanea volunteered.

"I see."

Conversation would have to wait until later. He grimaced, bothered. It was silly, he would see her in a few hours. But he wanted to see her now. Although the discharge was a happy surprise.

Which gave him an idea…

"Excuse me," he said, and passed Vanea, almost sprinting for the exit.

But he only made it a few steps when she reached out and grabbed his arm. "Dunban?"

"Yes?"

"Whatever you're doing with her, you should be careful."

Dunban narrowed his eyes. "What does that mean?"

She curled a stray lock around her ear. "You've been through a lot. She may not be as ...understanding."

Disgust curled in his gut. Was she trying to use his anger to poison his feelings for Melia?

"Jealousy isn't a good look for you, Vanea." And he yanked his sleeve away and stormed down the hall before he said something he might regret.

Or might not.

As he exited onto the concourse he tried to put away Vanea's intimation. But the old fears crept up, emerging from the shadows of his mind. Was he too damaged for Melia? Would he drive her away?

Now was not the time for this. He needed to focus on the task at hand, even if a small shred of anxiety took root in his heart.

He whipped out his communicator and texted Fiora. His sister would know what to do.

"Welcome back!" The small group cheered as Melia walked through the door of Dunban and Fiora's home, Kallian and Tyrea on either side of her.

She gasped, her eyes taking in the scene. A banner that read, "Welcome Home Melia!" hung in the entryway in big, bright neon colors. Under it, the team clustered together all smiles and cheers. Decked out in party hats, Reyn, Fiora, and Shulk began singing while Riki danced between their legs, blowing on a noisemaker of some kind that unfurled with each exhale. To the side of the chaotic greeting stood Dunban. Her eyes fell on him and he smiled that same knee-buckling smile she was so fond of. He crossed to her and held out a bouquet of roses.

"They're beautiful." She took the bouquet from him, marveling.

"I'm glad you like them." He murmured. The softness of his voice sent a delicious shiver straight down her spine.

"What is all of this for?"

"Isn't it obvious? You almost died but you didn't so we're celebrating." Tyrea leaned in and smelled the roses. "Nice touch, sir." She winked at Dunban and then skipped past him into the house.

Melia pursed her lips at her sister, then turned her attention to the larger group. "This is so wonderful. Thank you, all." She breathed. The words echoed in her mind and she faltered. She meant them but it sounded impersonal. She owed them more, wanted to communicate the depth of her gratitude. Sweeping her gaze over the group, she continued, voice wavering, "And...I want to thank you all for coming to my rescue. You put your lives on the line for mine and I...I am so grateful for that. I am so fortunate to know each of you and I apologize for worrying you—"

Fiora leaped at her and enveloped her in a hug. "We're just so glad you're okay, Melia."

The momentary surprise faded as Fiora's words registered, and Melia returned the embrace, a smile growing on her lips.

"Fiora, careful," Dunban said.

"She's not a doll, Dunban." Fiora countered, squeezing Melia. Then she stepped back and grimaced. "That was okay, right?"

Melia nodded.

"Melia, we put together a feast for you," Reyn said, gesturing towards the dining room.

"He's just hungry because we didn't let him taste-test the food," Fiora rolled her eyes.

"Ah, well let's not keep him waiting any longer," Melia responded. Fiora looped her arm through Melia's and led her further into the house.

A half-hour later and the group was seated outside, crowding around a picnic table definitely meant for fewer than their party. But no one seemed to mind the closeness of the quarters, except Melia, who was sandwiched between her siblings. But she didn't dare say anything. They had gone to all this trouble for her, she could withstand a few hours of minor discomfort. It wasn't that she disliked the close quarters, it was more she was unfamiliar with such a situation.

The conversation around her tumbled from one topic to the next, almost to fast for her to keep up with. She was still recovering.

"Riki," Melia lay her utensils down and folded her hands in her lap, catching the creature's attention. "The Nopon have lived on Mira for centuries, correct?"

Riki bobbed his head. "Nopon know everything about Mira."

"Dunban and I came across something peculiar in Oblivia." And she described the wailing stone and rock formation to the Nopon. "Do you have any idea what it is? Or what the inscription means?"

"Riki don't know."

"You just said you knew everything about Mira." Reyn rolled his eyes.

"Riki not know. But Chief Dunga surely know!" Riki puffed up. "Reyn insult Nopon!"

"I just meant you!" Reyn countered, throwing his arms up in exasperation.

"Don't worry about him, Riki," Fiora patted his fur.

Riki closed his eyes and leaned into Fiora's hands. "Riki forgive Reyn stupid slight." Reyn opened his mouth to protest when Shulk nudged him and shook his head. Reyn grumbled and took a bite of his bread roll.

"I found another one of them in Noctilum as well." Dunban steered the conversation back to its intended subject. Melia glanced at Dunban and he gave her a slight nod. She could always count on him to listen.

A pleasant warmth coiled within her at the thought.

"Then Chief Dunga certainly know." Riki purred. "If Chief not know, Chief know who will know."

"You know that's not an answer, right?" Reyn raised his eyebrows skeptically and took a bite of his bread roll.

"Riki challenge Reyn to duel!" Riki jumped upright away from Fiora's attentions and assumed an offensive stance.

As Melia watched Fiora and Shulk deescalate the argument, her thoughts floated back to the stone pillars. Hopefully, Chief Dunga would have an answer. Some instinct within her told her that they were important.

Regardless, she would need to secure permission to visit the Nopon village to speak with Chief Dunga. She did not look forward to that conversation with her father. No doubt, he would ask the importance of the visit and the highest probability dismiss her request. She was the ambassador to the Homs: her place was in NLA.

She paused. Was his permission necessary? Must she let him know she was going? Did she even care what his response would be?

Now that was a dangerous thought.

"Stop thinking. You look so serious. Everyone is going to wonder if something is wrong," Tyrea muttered.

"Sorry," Melia acknowledged.

"Have some wine. It is to die for." Tyrea smirked, her cheeks a shade rosier than normal.

Melia glanced around the table and the laughing faces. This was a gathering of friends, not some sort of state dinner or another diplomatic occasion. However, one could argue that she needed to always be wary of eyes watching her, assessing her, possibly using any missteps against her. But here? Certainly not. Not after everything they'd been through together.

And after the trial she'd just undergone, she deserved to enjoy herself.

So she took the wine glass in front of her and drank.

Hours later, the conversation lulled, the party's participants satiated with food and drink, the goal achieved: a good time had by all. At least, it appeared that way to Melia as she looked around and saw faces filled with smiles and laughter.

It still astounded her that fortune had favored her so with this collection of companions.

"Alright, well that was delicious." Reyn patted his belly. "I need a nap."

"No way. We need to walk it off first and digest." Shulk shook his head. "Get up. We'll walk back to the barracks instead of taking the jeep."

Reyn groaned.

Fiora jumped up. "I'll come with you guys. And then I'll take a car back." She glanced at Dunban, who nodded.

"Riki come too!" Riki waddled towards Fiora, swaying from side-to-side a little too obviously.

"Riki, I think you might want to get some rest." Fiora ruffled his fur, her pink cheeks struggling to hold in her laughter.

The Nopon bobbed up and down, his eyes drooping despite the physical activity. "Riki think Fiora right. Riki go sleep now. Goodnight." And the Nopon waddled into the house and up the stairs out of sight.

"That twerp left before cleaning up." Reyn huffed.

"I'll take care of it," Dunban said and began stacking plates.

"No, no. That's unfair." Fiora shook her head. "You cooked most of this."

"It was a team effort."

"Well, we can at least carry in everything," Shulk interjected.

It only took a few minutes to bring the dinner plates inside. Melia attempted to help, but each time she picked up a plate, someone took it from her. They insisted that the guest of honor would not be cleaning up her own party. She tried to assure them she was happy to help, but they would hear none of it. Besides, she was supposed to be resting.

"May I join you all on your walk back to the city center?" Kallian asked as Fiora, Shulk and Reyn strolled towards the front door.

"Of course! I'm sorry, I forgot you were staying in the BLADE tower." Fiora smiled.

"Not at all. I appreciate you letting me tag along." Kallian said as he opened the door. He looked over his shoulder at Melia. "Good night, I'll see you tomorrow.

"Goodnight. Thank you for the lovely evening." Melia said.

A chorus of responses came her way. Then they were out the door and off into the night.

"Well, I'm exhausted. I'll see you in the morning." Tyrea yawned, a little too big to be convincing, and headed for the stairs. As she ascended, she called out, "Don't stay up late, lovebirds!" Her cackle filled the air and then the creek of a door being open and closed killed the sound.

Melia felt her already warm face warm and she dared a glance at Dunban, who also looked...shy. Their eyes met and after a second of silence, they burst into quiet, embarrassed laughter.

"This evening was delightful. Thank you for organizing it, Dunban." Melia said once she recovered from her fit of laughter.

"Fiora was really the mastermind. I only told her that I wanted to give you a surprise party." Dunban answered.

"Even so, it is the thought that counts." She countered. The fact that he had even wanted to welcome her back into his home after everything had truly touched her. Truth be told, a little part of her was nervous that he was still angry with her.

"I wanted...to make you feel comfortable. After everything that happened." Dunban closed the distance between them and took one of her hands.

It was so incredibly thoughtful. He was so incredibly thoughtful. Her heart sang at his words and she gazed up at him. "You succeeded. With...flying colors. That's how you say it, correct?"

"Fiora teach you that?"

"Yes."

He kissed her hand. "I'm glad you're here."

"So am I." She murmured and stared into his eyes. How she'd love to get lost in them. But, now was not the time. She tugged gently on his hand and led him to the sofa. As she sat, she felt the slightest fear threaten to stain her joy. "Dunban...can you forgive me?"

He furrowed his brow. "For what?"

She heaved a sigh. "I know you are angry at me for overextending myself on the mission to retrieve the VITA. I understand why you are. But I also cannot change the past, nor do I regret the decisions I made. They were necessary for our survival. However," she bit her lip, feeling slightly emotional, "I am so sorry for worrying you. I know I've already shared these sentiments, but the gravity of the situation has weighed on my mind these past few days and I wish to make it known that the last thing I would ever wish to do is cause you harm."

His dark eyes gazed into hers and she looked away. The intensity of the gaze was frightening. Not in the sense she was afraid of him — of some sort of violence, she knew he would never hurt her — but of the emotion that stirred there. She couldn't read it. Was she about to be disappointed?

"Melia, look at me."

Her breath hitched in her throat and she refocused her attention back on Dunban.

"I'm not angry at you for what you did. I'm angry that you didn't feel that you could trust me with the truth. If I'm being honest, it's not all anger. More...disappointment." He said, the corners of his mouth turning downward.

Her stomach twisted itself into knots.

"Seeing you on the brink of death made me realize..." He paused, his brow creasing as he searched for the words.

Melia scooted closer and their knees touched. She wanted to feel connected to him. She wanted him to know that she was there for him.

"We haven't known each other for very long. But it feels like we have." He continued, then groaned. He ran his free hand through his hair. "I'm not very good at this." Dunban locked eyes with her, frustrated. "I want you to trust me. I want...you." He sighed. "I apologize that wasn't worded well at all."

"There is no need to apologize." She assured, breathless. He wanted her. He didn't want to be done, but he wanted to be with her. Everything in her buzzed; the statement shocking her system.

"You're leaving me hanging." He stated though she could sense the undercurrent of anxiety.

His voice jolted her out of her shocked state and a smile covered her lips. "Right. Apologies." Melia took his other hand in hers. "I am…of the same mind."

"You don't know how happy that makes me."

There was a vulnerability in his voice that touched her. She wanted to reach out and embrace him. It was everything she wanted to hear and more. All the worry and anxiety that had plagued her in the past few days washed away, replaced by relief, and excitement, and...something greater than infatuation.

But the memory of her conversation with her father reared its ugly head. She tensed. Gods she didn't want to lie to Dunban. Not after everything they'd been through. Not when they were both keen to broach the next step of their relationship.

"What's wrong?" His features knitted themselves into an expression of worry.

"I'm certain it wouldn't surprise you that my father holds certain opinions with regards to our peoples' alliance."

"No, it does not."

"Honesty is of utmost importance in a relationship. I think you would agree."

"There are things you won't tell me." She watched as the light of recognition went on in his eyes and cringed.

"It's not that I don't wish to. It's just…" She sighed and rubbed her forehead. "I don't agree with his reasons, but I understand them. And it is not my place to disobey his order."

"Not after he left you to die?"

It was harsh. A gut punch. Melia looked away, feeling the sting vibrate in her body.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that." He murmured. "It wasn't my place."

"Perhaps. Perhaps not. But you're not wrong. Why do I continue to be loyal when my loyalty is not reciprocated?" She agreed. Frustration began to swell in her chest but quickly gave way to reason as her mind sorted through the events of the past few days. "He did save me. At a great personal cost."

It was difficult to feel anything positive towards her father. But he had saved her life.

"You're right. I owe him my gratitude for that. And I won't say a word against your father if you wish it."

"No. This is exactly what I'm speaking of. I don't wish for you to keep things from me, but it seems I must keep things from you." She creased her lips into a line, irritation taking root and growing quickly.

"Does this have to do with the lifehold?"

Mutely, Melia nodded.

"Let me ask you this. Whatever it is, does it hurt my people?" Dunban asked matter-of-factly.

Melia shook her head vigorously. "No, not at all. That's why I disagree with my father. I think it would be better to share what his interest is, but he is not of the mind."

"Then that's all I need to know." He said, taking her hands again. "I don't want to put you in an awkward position with your father, but you know I also have to look out for my people. So, to make this work," he gestured between the two of them, "In the future, without sharing specifics, if something could affect either of our peoples negatively, we tell the other. How does that sound?"

Melia hesitated, then nodded. "Yes, I think that is doable."

"Not that I'll have much to tell you," he grunted.

Her stomach dropped. "Dunban, I am so sorry. Your demotion, that is my fault. If you'd like, I'm happy to appeal to the council on your behalf to have you reinstated."

He narrowed his eyes. "No. This is not your fault. You did nothing wrong."

"I was careless and allowed myself to be captured."

"Melia. I don't blame you. And you shouldn't blame yourself." He gnashed his teeth together. "It's Maurice and his lackeys that are to blame." A fierce fire burned in his brown eyes. There it was, the anger, the ever-present rage that was always under the surface, ready and waiting to consume him.

Carrying it must have been a huge burden. It made her sad for him. She wanted to take his pain away.

Melia squeezed his hand, drawing him back to the present. The fire died and he answered, "It seems that your father ensured I have to be a part of this alliance. Any insight there?"

"None, I'm afraid." Melia shrugged. "Perhaps it's because he already knows you. My father doesn't enjoy making new acquaintances unless absolutely necessary."

Dunban laughed. The curve of her mouth turned upward. She had missed that sound. It was not often she heard Dunban's laughter, but it was warm and comforting. She hoped to make him laugh much more in the future, even though she didn't feel she was a very funny person.

"As humorous as it is, I assure you that is pure truth."

"I don't doubt it."

"I really am sorry about what happened to you and the BLADE council."

"And as I said, it's not your fault."

"And you still want to…" She flushed, "...be with me?"

"That's a question you never have to worry about, Melia."

The way he said it gave her a feeling of permanence. Something like forever. It should've alarmed her, possibly scared. And yet...it didn't.

Dunban leaned towards her and snaked an arm around her waist, pulling her close to him. Adrenaline spiked through her at his touch. "I've wanted to kiss you all night." His voice just above a whisper.

Melia swallowed, her pulse quickening. "What are you waiting for?"

There was the slightest shift in his gaze. Something playful to something predatory. A thrill ran through her as their noses touched and her body screamed for more contact.

His lips brushed against hers and she sighed. She wrapped her arms around his neck and drew him in, driving another kiss, her happiness and relief coursing through her as her lips roamed over his. She wanted to feel as much of him as possible. She wanted him to know how much she wanted this, how much she'd dreamed of it. She didn't realize how much she had yearned for his touch.

As their kisses deepened, she ran her hands down his chest and gripped his shirt. She deepened each kiss, this time opening a different part of her heart with each connection. She gave him her gratitude for rescuing her and thanked him for her life. Most of all, she kissed him for believing in her, for his unwavering loyalty. And her lips held a promise of giving him the same.

Time fell away. The world disappeared. All there was was the two of them.

Eventually, they parted, stumbling to catch their breath. Dunban opened his mouth to say something, but before he could, he was interrupted by a buzzing noise. Cursing, he pulled out his communicator. His eyes quickly scanned the message.

"Fiora is on her way back."

With a small frown, Melia nodded. It seemed their time would have to come to an end for the evening. It was too soon.

"I guess that means we should retire for the night." Melia surmised.

"I'd rather keep you up for longer." He kissed her again and winked. A flame burst to life in her core at the insinuation.

"Too much?" He asked, wary.

"No." She bit her lip and eyed him with her own mischievous smirk.

Standing, he held out a hand to her and helped her up off the sofa. A wave of fatigue washed over the High Entia. She needed bed. The wine was finally dragging her energy down.

As if sensing her exhaustion, he began the stroll towards her bedroom. "That does bring up a question. How public do you want to be?"

That was a good question. "Given your recent...troubles with the BLADE Council, I think it would be prudent to keep it to ourselves." She twitched her nose, agitated. She didn't really want to hide her relationship. In fact, a part of her wanted to flaunt it to the world.

Which was strange given she was a very private person. She chalked it up to the wine.

"I think it'll be difficult to hide it from the team. They already assume we're together anyway." He grinned.

"We should share the truth with them then."

They arrived at her bedroom door. He wrapped his arms around her and brought her close. She lay her head on his chest. They stayed in that embrace for a few minutes, breathing in time with one another. As if this were something they'd always done. How quickly and easily they seemed to fit together.

It was nothing short of miraculous. Melia wondered if it was always like this.

Then she yawned.

"I should probably let you get some rest." He kissed the top of her head.

She let out a tiny laugh. "I have to agree. I might fall asleep on you shortly if I do not."

"I wouldn't mind."

Disappointedly, the High Entia extricated herself from the embrace. "Goodnight, Dunban. Thank you, truly, for this entire evening. It was...much needed after everything that had happened."

"Of course. I'm glad you enjoyed it." He leaned down and kissed her again, the briefest of touches that left her wanting more. "Goodnight, Melia. Sleep well."

With a nod, she opened the door and cast one last glance over her shoulder to see him amble back down the hallway and out of sight. Stepping inside and closing the door, she immediately wished she could fall asleep in his arms.

The warmth in her cheeks was a clear indication of the blush that crept up her face without needing a mirror. It was a scandalous thought. Still, it didn't change that she would look forward to the day that would be the case.

For Melia knew that her feelings for Dunban were far deeper than anything she'd ever experienced before.

She was in the chair again. Her wrists and ankles strapped down. The cold metal froze her skin though drops of sweat rolled down her forehead. She pulled against the restraints, but the shackles wouldn't budge.

A series of grunts reached her ears, coupled with the pattering of footsteps. Her pulse quickened. They grew nearer. She looked right and left, frantic. The cell was tiny; nowhere to hide. Utterly exposed.

Trapped.

The door flung open and he stepped inside. The prone commander. The prone with the dead eyes. Her jailer. Her tormentor. Her murderer.

"It's time."

He strode for her and took out his knife. "This is your last chance. Tell me what I want to know or I'll make it hurt."

She shook her head, trembling from head to toe. Her eyes flicked between him and the silver knife in his grip. "I don't know anything."

He tapped the blade against his fingers. Then ran it down the side of her face. "I asked you for information. You gave me nothing. And no one can save you now." He plunged the knife into her neck—

SHE SCREAMED.

Her eyes flew open. She bolted upright, staring into the darkness, clutching the sheets to her. Her heart raced. Blood pounded in her ears.

Where was she?

She took a deep breath, forcing herself to be calm, waiting for her memory to return. She took another deep breath, her heartbeat slowing.

Then it all came flooding back. She was in Dunban's home, in one of the guest rooms, across the hall from him. She was safe.

"Safe," she whispered.

There was a knock at the door. She nearly jumped out of her skin. A spike of adrenaline gushed through her. "Melia? Are you alright?" Dunban's worried voice came through the door.

Her body sagged in relief. Not an intruder. Not the prone commander. It was Dunban. She was safe.

She had to repeat it again to herself. Safe.

"Yes, I'm fine. I simply knocked something over."

"...alright."

He didn't sound convinced. It wasn't a very convincing lie. But she didn't need him to come in. Melia didn't need him to know that she had had a nightmare. It was only the first of many to come. And she didn't need him to know she was weak. She had just recovered from the hospital. She needed everyone to think she was alright. So she could get back to work.

Hadn't she just asked for total honesty from him mere hours ago? And here she was already keeping secrets? A pang of guilt rippled through her. She would tell him. She had to. Just not tonight.

"Are you sure?" He inquired.

"I'm alright, Dunban. Truly. I appreciate your checking." She said as calmly and serenely as she could.

"Okay then. Goodnight, Melia."

"Goodnight."

She heard his footsteps retreat and she slumped back into the bed.

Her heart thumped against her ribs. She kept her eyes open, though felt sleep slowly drag them downwards. No, she would fight against the impulse for as long as possible. Sleep was no longer her friend, she knew that now. It was no longer emptiness or an emotionless slideshow of chaotic memories. No, it was a haunted house built by her worst fears. It belonged to her nightmares now, and she was their prisoner.


A/N: I know it's been a hot second. The world is crazy right now. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Gotta let these lovebirds finally have a few moments of happiness. Leave some love and stay safe everyone~