Vana was across the room before anyone else, the majority still standing in place, shocked. The commander approached and pulled Thea into a tight hug.
‘I’m so glad you’re okay!’ She exclaimed and pulled Thea forward, ‘you are well? Aren’t you?’
‘I’m well,’ Thea replied. She felt embarrassed, her cheeks burning. Her voice was hoarse from lack of use and dehydration. The Captain stumbled, ducking as she was pulled towards the central command table. A map of the forest was laid out across the top. Heavy rocks used as weights to keep it from furling back up again.
Vana positioned her beside Ronin and Thea looked up at the man. His pale blue eyes locked intently with hers. Saying everything he dared not to speak aloud. That he would never express in such a public forum. But she could see th
