Laying there, Dahlia sighed deeply as the anger and confusion fizzled out within her. She was content, which was a feeling that had eluded her for more than a week, and was only a visiting stranger in the weeks before that. But now the smile touched her eyes, shut though they were, and she leaned against Quinn and nodded. 

“[color=skyblue]Yeah. Yeah, I do. Love you, too, Quinn.[/color]” 

She could have stayed like that for a long time, and been happy. But that wouldn’t do, not for Quinn. She’d survived not only her first duel, but her first Modir as well—three of them, at that. She should be celebrating, or at least out enjoying herself while the tsunami of political fallout was still only on the horizon. There'd be time for business and fussing in the coming days, but for now they could [i]breathe[/i]. It had been so long since she'd just...breathed. Not since before Hovvi—a lifetime ago, now. 

“[color=skyblue]You know, when I won my first duel, Besca and I baked a cake. I bet we’ve got all the stuff we need—we should make one for you tonight, too.[/color]” She brought her other hand up, tousled Quinn’s hair. “[color=skyblue]Go on, get out of here. Go relax, go hang out in the observatory. Go be happy. I’ll see you guys tonight.[/color]”