"I dunno what would've happened to me, if it waren't for you."

Vlad smiled. "Aw, you're welcome, hon," he said. His expression turned wry then, and he added, "But don't act like you'll never see me again. I'm dating Teige, you know."

Hawk started. "What?! That's how you know each other? Wait--really?!"

The night fell deeply, but the Cynn was still awake, poring over various documents and forms. Helly poured another cup of steaming liquid from a teapot, but even as ne did, ne said, < You should really get some sleep, Highness. >

The Cynn merely answered without looking up, < I'm almost done. >

Hawk wasn't sleeping either. He just lay on his back with his head pillowed on his arms as the hours ticked by, staring at the ceiling.

Teige, meanwhile, slept hard and deeply.

When morning did finally come, it found Liya already up and in her uniform, whistling to herself cheerfully as she laced up her boots. She took a moment to rummage through her bag, making sure whatever she needed was there.