She could see the soft rise and fall of Violet's breathing, a contrast to the turmoil swirling around them. The world outside felt chaotic, heavy with uncertainty, yet this moment was a quiet sanctuary. Aeron shifted slightly in his seat, his brow furrowed as he wrestled with his thoughts.
"It shouldn't have to be this way," he muttered, almost to himself. "So much division, so many lives in danger because of choices made by those in power."
Starfania nodded, understanding his frustration. "We can't change the past, but we can shape the future. Every step we take now matters."
She tightened her grip on his hand, a silent promise that they would face this together. Aeron met her gaze, the warmth in her eyes bringing him comfort amidst his storm of doubt. "I never imagined I would be here, fighting alongside my best friend. And yet, here we are."
"Sometimes the most unexpected journeys lead to the most important destinations," Starfania replied gently. "We're not just fighting for ourselves. We're fighting for everyone who can't."
The weight of her words hung between them, both a burden and a beacon. Aeron inhaled slowly, as if gathering strength from her conviction. "You're right. It's not just about the crown or the throne. It's about the people, the lives caught in the crossfire."
He glanced back at Violet, still peacefully asleep, and a sense of resolve began to settle within him. "I want to protect that innocence. I want to make sure she grows up in a world where loyalty means something again."
Starfania smiled softly, feeling a bond between them strengthen. "Then let's make that our mission. We'll fight, not just for her, but for every child who deserves a chance. Together, we'll carve out a better future."
Aeron smiled, his spirit lifting. "Together."
The word resonated deeply, echoing the promise of solidarity they would carry forward into the unknown.
Aeron gently leaned in and embraced Starfania, his arms strong yet comforting. She closed her eyes for a moment, allowing herself to rest against him, grateful for the warmth and stability he offered a soft smile. " Rest well. I'll return to check on you later. Take care, Star. "
Just as he turned to leave, a thought tugged at her heart.
" Wait…Aeron, " she said quietly. " How's my dragon Atlas? "
He paused in the doorway and chuckled, his voice light for the first time in a while. " Still as stubborn and loyal as ever. He didn't leave your side once after the rocket incident. Even when we brought you here, he refused to go too far. "
Starfania's heart swelled with relief. She had worried about Atlas, knowing how deeply their bond ran.
"I miss him," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Aeron turned back, his expression softening.
"He misses you too," he replied. "He stays in your room, waiting for you to wake up. I think he understands more than we realize."