A WAR AMONGST THE STARS

CHAPTER NINETEEN

SERENA'S POV

It's meeting day. A day in which a small group of some of the former prisoners, and survivors of the last attack aboard join for a little bonding time, as Nolance likes to call it.

After graciously giving in to my persistent pestering, King Zurhen was considerate enough to allow us to come together, bi-weekly. He said it would be good for us, but I know what he really thinks. He only agreed upon the idea specifically to have me keep an eye on the ones he let go after the battle onboard.

His own little personal spy sent in to monitor the enemy. It's cute how he forgets that I can hear his thoughts. Even with knowing how strong our bond grows by the day. I mean, at this rate, I wouldn't be surprised if one day, I might be blessed enough to hear his voice from even beyond the stars. Wouldn't that be great?

I smile behind closed lips, continuing down the hall towards the secret meeting room Nolance had found abandoned on the opposite side of the ship.

When asked why he picked a place so far from everyone else, he had said,"Because it is just far enough to where those giant, big eared creatures cannot spy."

I chuckle at the memory, that is until another, old, reoccurring memory finds its way into my thoughts. The memory I can't seem to shake, no matter where I go, or how much time has passed since the attack.

Seeing my mate through the eyes of my star during the day we found him lying upon the ground, soaked in his own blood and so very near death, the harrowing scene haunts me still, just as it has done nearly every night after.

Had it not been for my star saving Zurhen's life before slaughtering all responsible for wishing harm upon him, he would not be here. I would have lost him. The only one I have ever truly loved more than anyone else. I would have lost him. I would have lost my own heart and with it, my greatest, truest love.

I shudder at the idea of losing him, then close the door, willing the thought away. "Not today."

As for the remaining survivors, the ones I do not hold responsible. Innocent allies. Kind, and trustworthy, the good remain, as do the ones willing to start again, to be good, just like me.

We're a work in progress, but at least we're trying, thanks to our little unofficial therapy sessions.

Nolance sneaks up from behind. "You are looking positively radiant as always," he whispers into my ear. Fresh snow and the crisp night, his natural scent wavers, overwhelming my senses with a calming nostalgia.

I exhale a long, relieved breath.

While blushing, I turn and give him a playful push.

He stumbles back, smirking so handsomely. "You little devil. So violent. I love it," he ends with a wink.

"Hello, Nolance."

"Hello, darling," he greets with a warm, innocent smile.

Nolance moves towards, stopping to stand close in front of me.

His hands reach out, aiming for the strings above my long, silver bodice. He goes on to tie a neat bow, then dusts whatever invisible lint he thinks is there, off the shoulders to my white blouse. His attention locks on the glowing, chunky star jewel he gifted me at the Winter Starlight celebration. After a few seconds, he stares up beneath thick, raised brows and asks, "Did you sleep well?"

"Not really. Had the nightmare again."

"Hmph," he responds. His eyes lower to my necklace. He lifts it, studying it. "Maybe the coolness of jewel will keep you from sweating at night."