Lunise might have been more amused -- or affronted -- by Zyausak and Marcaano's words had she the remaining mind to do so. She let them go without another word. Her shoulders fell as if only now having the space to breathe out.

When Meesei wrapped her arms around Lunise, she was strangely still at first. She looked at the wall ahead. When Meesei finished speaking, she took two moments longer than usual to even respond, instead gently curling her fingers around Meesei's hands and running a thumb affectionately over her knuckles.

"My support has been largely practical, even without our relationship," Lunise murmured. She bowed her head down to look at Meesei's hands. "But I do love to see you happy. Especially with amazing things like this. It is rare to see you quite this joyful."

Lunise tensed her diaphragm and forced her eyes shut for a few seconds.