Lightning Strikes Twice

Chapter 33: Descent

As I'm trying to fall asleep, I feel shuffling beside me. I try to ignore it but it doesn't take long for me to turn over.

"Xenith? You okay?"

"Shit.. sorry I.. I can't sleep. I didn't wake you up, did I?"

I sit up next to him as I put a hand over his.

"No, you didn't. I haven't been able to sleep either."

"Right.. okay.."

Xenith bears a troubled look on his face and I'd bet I'm no different. He takes a deep breath in and let's it out slowly.

"I just.. I can't believe.. we left him there.. I left him there.. the day's over and he's still not back. What if.."

Xenith starts to cry as he pauses.

"What if he didn't make it?"

"Hey, stop that. I'm worried too, but we can't think like that. Marsh isn't stupid, we have to have faith in him."

Xenith stays looking down, not saying a word.

"He puts so much faith into you, into all of us. Can't you give that back?"

Xenith stay quiet for a moment. He then turns to me. He squeezes my hand as he smiles at me.

"Thanks. You're probably right. I mean, he is one to surprise. Still, thanks."

I place my hand on his face as I smile back at him.

"Its what I'm here for."

Xenith holds my hand there for a minute. He then let's go of my hand as he takes in a deep breath, then letting it out.

"Alright.. I'm gonna try to sleep again."

"Then I will too. Goodnight Xenith."

"Night Celosia."

---

"So.. he's still not back yet, huh?"

As I ask that, Kron looks down as he lets out a heavy sigh.

"Nope. He's.. not back yet."

I put my hand on his shoulder as I smile at him.

"Hey, don't sweat it. I'm almost sure- no, I'm completely certain that he'll be back by today. I just know he will."

Kron smiles back at me as he starts to lift his head back up.

"Thanks Martix."

I nod back in response. Right after, I see my sister and Xenith walking over to us. The moment I see them, I start waving.

"Oh, hey! Morning guys. You two meet up before coming here?"

From how his scarf moves a bit, it looks like Xenith's about to say something. However, Celosia speaks first with a smile.