Kes was very curious about this woman’s story, but decided not to ask. She looked tired.

Tresit spoke then, saying that he could see for them. Kes looked over to him. He asked her then how she got the food and water. Kes told him the story of going down into the city and stealing the food and water. She told him that she’d confused the two boys with her mental abilities too, but when he asked her to tell her more, she shook her head and told him that she didn’t know herself.

He tried to stay awake, because it was apparent he wanted to ask her more, but Kes could tell he was losing his battle to do so. She went over to him and touched his cheek. –You’ve been very brave for your family.– She told him a little fondly, already having decided she liked him. His thoughts didn’t feel very much like the other males from the city at any rate. He seemed more… much more kind. –It’s time to rest…– and she gently nudged him to slumber with her mind.

Anara asked what she had done.

–He was tired but… trying not to show it.– She told her. –I just… gave him a small nudge to get him to sleep, that’s all.–

Anara was quiet a moment. ’We are at your mercy…’ She told her softly, Kes starting to get the knack of understanding her somewhat better by now. Her translations were still a long way from perfect, but practice, and how open Anara was being with her, was helping. ’I’m afraid my family won’t survive unless… you stay with us.’ Anara said, seeming like she wanted to ask more.

Kes tried to puzzle it out, but then understanding came to her somehow. –You still want to know why I’m here, why I helped you, but… you’re afraid that if you do ask, I’ll realize that I don’t have to. That you’d only… be a burden to me, isn’t that right?– Kes asked gently.

Anara looked at her sadly then, almost desperately, tears coming to her eyes. Kes reached over and gently wiped those tears away. ’I have nothing,’ Anara said. ’I am nothing, I am weak. My son is healthy, but no one would have him.’ She kept speaking, but Kes stilled her lips, gently touching them with one finger.