"It's fine, it's fine..." Kiana narrowed her eyes, looking her up and down. "Why are you standing in the doorway spacing out?"
The question only made the girl more uneasy.
She stammered out an explanation. "I found out you were in this meeting room, so I came over. I'd just raised my hand to knock when... ahem, never mind that. Did I just... say anything weird?"
Clearly.
Word that Veliona had run into Kiana and spoken to her had already reached her.
That was why Seele had rushed over to smooth things over.
Kiana scratched her head, looking baffled. "Anything weird? I don't remember."
Instead, she gave a radiant smile. "I should be thanking you for your advice."
"Phew-"
Her tense shoulders instantly sagged.
Seele let out a long breath. "That's a relief... she wouldn't tell me the details no matter what. It really scared me."
Kiana tilted her head.
Question marks were written all over her face.
She was completely out of the loop.
The truth was even more absurd: Veliona wasn't hiding anything. Even that other personality herself had no idea what had happened.
Seele took a deep breath, her gaze sincere. "If something's bothering you, don't hesitate to ask! We're friends. I'm happy to help."
"Thanks."
Kiana grinned and answered readily, "I'll come to you next time, too."
"Mm!"
It was late, and all was quiet.
Deep within the base, not a sound stirred.
Kiana lay sprawled on her bed, every limb feeling as though it had fallen apart.
"I'm exhausted..."
Muttering, she rolled over.
Her mind had been a complete mess during training that day. Before she knew it, it was already this late.
It was a headache, all right.
Yet warmth filled her heart.
No matter how absurd the questions she asked, no one laughed