Again, Lunise was silent for a while. She slowly adjusted to wrap her arms around Meesei in turn and hold her just as tightly.

Meesei could feel Lunise's body heat, likely exacerbated from her dark dress, but she would not let go. With her chin over one of Meesei's shoulders, whatever expression she had was hidden. She turned her head to lay a kiss on Meesei's cheek and held her a little tighter. "I trust you, Meesei," she whispered. "You are stronger than anyone deserves."

[hr]
No more words permeated the meeting room. Some people cleared their throats, chairs sang on the stone floor as the council stood, and tension was high.

The same went for Fendros, who took a second to close his eyes and calm himself with a slow breath before standing. His heart was racing from confronting the council with such a decision.

He opened his eyes in time to see the hints on Ahnasha's demeanour. He took his time and caught up with her as she exited the room.

"Ahna," he said, catching her eye. "Do you feel like a drink as much as I do?"