cascade | kotlc

12. The More They Stay the Same

 June woke up next to Sophie.

"You're awake," someone whispered. It was Elwin. He opened her lips and poured a viscous liquid into her throat. June breathed in. She wanted more.

You're awake.

"Fitz?" June closed her eyes. Doing anything was tiring. It took her so much energy to stay awake.

You've stretched yourself too much, June. You've been out cold for two weeks.

"Two weeks?" It felt impossible. Then again, she'd been blasted by a melder countless times, she'd been burned for a week, her back was shredded, and she'd definitely used more Gusting than she could handle.

I told you to get a Mentor. June could feel Fitz smiling. How are you feeling?

"Where's Mom and Dad?"

With Sophie. I hope you're okay with that. I'll call them in if you want.

"No, that's fine."

She thought for a while.

"Is my back okay? The wound was... bigger than I told Sophie."

Elwin treated it for a couple days, but it's healed. There's a scar though.

"A scar?"

It stretches from your right shoulder to your left leg. It's horrible.

June felt herself hyperventilating. She cared about her appearance, after all. Fitz took her hand.

You're still beautiful. Scars cannot change your personality. They just prove how brave you are. I promise, I don't mind.

"Thank you."

Elwin came over again, carrying a tray filled with medicines. "These are for your melder injuries. Your muscles were dying. When I checked you, half were fully paralyzed already. I don't know how you made it, June, but you're a very courageous girl."

Here. Fitz uncorked a vial and pried open her lips. June could feel herself blushing as he tipped the contents of the vial into her mouth.

"Did- Did I sustain permanent damage?"

"Miraculously, no. You're going to make it through fine."

June exhaled. "Thank you. Tell Sophie... tell her I'm okay."

I will. I have. He fed June another vial. Your skin will be fine too, by the way. Those burns... Elwin said they looked treated already. Which was why they didn't scar.

"Someone helped us escape. I don't know who, but I think it was him. Ask... Sophie." She groaned and leaned backwards.

Elwin set the tray on the counter next to her. "Fitz, give her one every five minutes from now. Should help her fully recover."

He nodded. Elwin says you can't use your ability until you get a Mentor.

"I know. Tell Dame Alina."

I have. You're getting Councillor Velia.

"As my mentor?"

Fitz nodded proudly. The Council wishes for you, your sister, and Dex to receive the best training possible.

"She deserves it."

You do too, June.

"Kiss me."

Fitz pressed his lips to hers.

--- Sophie POV ---

"You up for a few visitors?" Elwin asked.