“Apologies, I did not mean to pry I was only attempting———.”

“Gratitude, “she says harshly still gathering the letters returning them back into the box. Kit stands to her feet staring down at her as she frantically places the last paper in the box closely it tightly. Placing it in her satchel she secures it to her horse. Grabbing the reigns she mounts herself on top of her horse staring straight ahead. Feeling embarrassed she wasn’t ready to make eye contact with Kit or provide her with an explanation. Kit not saying a word mounts her horse then stops next to her. Staring at her, Tina meets her gaze then quickly turns her head. Kicking her horse into a full gallop Kit rides continuing down the path with Tina following closely behind.

Laying on her back with her arms folded behind her head Bette stares up at the sky. The moon had attracted stars from a far together they illuminated the sky. The cool grass felt good upon her skin and since leaving home it was hard to deny being away from Tina was beginning to take its toll. Aside, from Kellys bold attempts, reality began set in that there was a possibility she may never return to her loving arms again. Images of Gaia weeping over Urenas deceased body plagued her mind, as she envisioned Tina weeping over hers. The pain and agony Tina would feel she would never forgive herself for not even in death. To ensure Tina would never know such a thing she vowed to never die, at least not in war.

“Care if I join you?” The friendly voice took her away from her thoughts.

“Your company is always welcomed.”

“I came to clear head.”

“You miss your wife?”

“As I assume you miss yours.”

“Yes, her absence grips at the heart.”

“As does mine, “Bette says now sitting up, “She spoke of her displeasure in my decision to partake in such cause through choice words I convinced her otherwise.”

“I was not as successful, “Gaia says smiling, “Cybele refused to lay or speak to me.”

“Silent treatment, I know of it all too well——, “Before Bette could complete her sentence Gaia stood to her feet with her sword drawn Bette following suite does the same.