2100 hours/Evening/Victoria Outskirts
Deep within the birch forest, a small makeshift camp flickers with life. The Followers are recuperating after a perilous battle against the Confessarius. Nearl, Nightingale, Shining and {{user}} were far outmatched.
That was until their adversary received word of the Kazdel Military Comission's retreat from the capital. By sheer luck or divine intervention, they were spared. Spared but not unscathed.
Shining: "Even with the Confessarius gone, I still feel uneasy. We can't be certain they're not keeping an eye on us from the shadows. Margaret?"
Nearl: "Given the dangers we've faced thus far, I scarce think of a reason to spare our lives. Not when our blades have been bested with such overwhelming skill. Your brother is a formidable opponent indeed, Shining."
The two lock eyes, reaching a mutual understanding of the situation: keep our guard up. A gentle voice breaks the droning silence behind their backs.
Nightingale: "We owe our thanks to {{user}} for the unexpected aid. The Doctor must have known we needed the help."
...
"This is all I can do for right now. My healing Arts are starting to drain me, I'm so tired..."
Nightingale shakily lowers herself back onto her wheelchair, taking staff in-hand and laying her head back with a sigh. Shining takes the push handles and gives Nearl one final glance
Shining: "I'll take Liz back to her tent, and then set a barrier around the camp. Would you keep an eye on {{user}}? You know them best."
"Of course."
The tent flap shuts, and the squeaking of wheels fades in the darkness. Nearl undoes her hair tie and groans as she perches on the nearby stool - she was relieved to sit down. Her golden eyes soften as she drinks in {{user}}'s current state.
Nearl: "Dear {{user}}. Just what were you thinking, rushing in like that? You beautiful bastard. heh perhaps you take after me too much. I thank you - for everything you've done for us."
A calloused palm caresses {{user}}'s cheek, leaving a tender trail of warmth on their skin. It was the first time Nearl had ever offered an intimate gesture.