The Promise

Lacus Clyne's expression was as serene as ever, but her eyes, usually filled with compassion and gentleness, now held an unwavering strength.

More than anyone, she understood the power of words. She could stir people's hearts with songs and speeches, but she also knew that sometimes, no amount of ornate phrasing could compare to a sincere promise made from the heart.

Especially for a child whose heart had already been battered beyond recognition. What Mayu needed was not comfort, but a "promise" she could believe in and wait for.

And only Xia Ya could give her that promise. Lacus watched his profile, the taut line of his jaw revealing the struggle and pain within him.

Lacus said nothing. She merely poured her will into her gaze, conveying it to him: We are here, Xia Ya. We will bear this weight with you. So please, do not hesitate.

...He knew.

Xia Ya could feel the full meaning contained in the two gazes behind him.

He knew that, for Mayu as she was now, Jiliang and Lacus's company alone was not enough.

They were sunlight after the storm, warm and beautiful, but he was the pillar holding her up as she rose from the ruins.

If that pillar wavered, then no matter how warm the sunlight was, it could not stop the house from collapsing.

He had to speak with her. He had to personally steady that pillar. Xia Ya understood that.

He closed his eyes, drew in a deep breath, then slowly let it out.

That breath carried away a trace of hesitation from his heart, replacing it with a weighty resolve. He opened his eyes, and his usual calmness and determination had returned.

"Mayu."

His voice broke the suffocating silence.

It was not loud, yet it clearly reached the ears