The Girl from the Ground - Season 1

Episode Four, Part 3:

Episode Four, Part 3: 
A Boy Named Theo 

The gates to Basilisk were pulled open and Eden made her way inside camp, closely followed by her father and aunt Dreea. Since joining her in the forest, they had never strayed more than a few metres away from her and though Eden was the Sovereign, she felt as if she was on a very tight leash - like a dog, or a young child.

Before she could so much as sigh in relief over being home, her mother's arms were wrapped around her in a tight embrace. Eden allowed it for a moment before she felt smothered.

"Mom," she groaned, pushing slightly so Sol pulled away. "I'm fine. You hugging me every time I get back to camp is going to make me look weak in front of everyone."

Sol was a little hurt by Eden's comment, wanting to tell her that love was an asset, not a weakness, but she knew she had been the same when she was her daughter's age.

"I just worry about you. I know what the job's like - and it's not easy," Sol said.

As she spoke, Wynn made her way over to her side, slinging his arm around Sol's shoulders.

"Your mom's right," he said. "And despite what you think, you are allowed to show your emotions. It's important for your people to see that."

"Well, thanks to both of you, I have quite a legacy to live up to," Eden said, her voice trailing off as her eyes glanced around in search of someone. She whispered a name under her breath, feeling a smile embrace her features, before she ran from her parents over to the boy who was waiting for her.

Eden leaned into Elijah's open arms, her head resting firmly against his chest as his hands fell around her waist, keeping her held tight. The rest of the world drowned out for Eden; there was no enemy clan, or approaching war, or responsibility she had to face. Just Elijah.

"I was so worried about you," his words were soft against the crook of her neck as he leaned down.

"I know. I'm sorry," Eden said, leaning against him for just a while longer until she would have to pull away. "I was thinking while I was out there that I should give you one of the spare radios. That way, you won't have to wait for me to come home; I'll be able to tell you I'm fine while I'm out there."

Elijah smiled sorely and pulled away. He knew that wouldn't be allowed, but he appreciated her offer, anyway.

"Maybe just tell Veer next time. You know, so she can pass the message onto me."

At his comment, a reminder resurfaced in Eden's mind. "Veer," she mumbled. "I need to tell the others I'm back. Are they in the Quarters?"

Elijah nodded as Eden started turning around for the door, keeping her hold on his hand, only to find that he didn't follow.

"What's wrong?" She asked.

"...I shouldn't go in there."

"What, have you got in a fist fight with Harlow, or something?" Eden joked. "Come with me."

She turned again and pulled on Elijah's hand; he made it a few steps - mostly due to her strength - but it was clear that he was reluctant. With a furrowed brow and chewed lip, Eden turned to face him.

"Why don't you want to go inside?"

Elijah wasn't sure what to say. He didn't want to cause a rift between Eden and her parents by telling her the truth, but he didn't want to lie to her, either. Yet, as his eyes glanced over towards the former Sovereigns to see if they were watching, Eden found her answer.