save the 'est

Ethel's service to the survivors of Colony 14 was of no unparalleled import, in her mind: the act of any loyal Kevesi commander. But, as a personal mark, she did wish to keep her eyes on those three who had stared up at her in such awe.

The winged girl, in particular. Eunie. Ethel knew that it wasn't possible for her to be of any great advanced age relative to these soldiers, but her gaze was locked with Eunie's just the same.

Eunie would be hers. Her proud beacon. Her duty, though she did not speak it, until Homecoming time.