Panning Waves
By SMYGO4EVA

She felt a coldness in her heart.

The ocean waves flowed back and forth upon the shores. While the sun shone high, Noelle felt cold.

On the warm sands, Kahono sat beside her. She shifted where she sat, creating a space between them.

"Something on your mind, Noelle?"

Noelle looked up and nodded. "Oh, it's nothing, I guess I'm just tired," she replied, exhaustion and guilt coiling within her, and she hugged her knees close to her chest.

"Sure doesn't sound like nothing," Kahono leaned in closer, her eyes furrowed. There was something there, she could tell.

She blinked.

Noelle grimaced and turned to face Kahono. "Okay, you're right, it's not nothing,'" she sighed. "It's just that…I know I've improved my magic, and I've proven my mettle, time and time again, but…I can't help but feel that I could have done more."

A small hush fell, letting Noelle's words settle in the air.

Kahono shifted close to Noelle, and she reached out her hand. Noelle looked away for a brief moment, and she accepted Kahono's hand, their fingers entwined.

"I understand how you feel, Noelle. Even I feel that way at times too, especially after regaining my voice. But I know for a fact that we both did our best, and no one can take that away."

Noelle smiled softly, and Kahono smiled right back, gentle, and bright.

"You're right, Kahono. I guess I have trouble remembering that, thank you."

Kahono nodded affirmatively. "You are more than welcome, Noelle."

Noelle nodded, and Kahono put her head on the Magic Knight's shoulder.

Then then looked toward the vast, blue sea in front of them, the waves moving to and fro, their hands still together.