The soft glow of Silver Lining's ambient lights dimmed gently as we entered our quarters. The world outside was vast and dark, but inside, it was just us—safe and still.
De'rax pulled me close, his hands warm against my skin. I leaned into him, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath my palm, a calm anchor in the swirling uncertainty of what lay ahead.
He brushed a gentle kiss against my forehead, whispering, "No matter what happens tomorrow, you and our pup come first."
I smiled, eyes closing as I rested my head against his chest. "And you, always."
Our fingers intertwined, fitting together like pieces made for each other. The hum of the ship was a lullaby, steady and sure.
Slowly, the tension eased from my body as sleep began to pull me under, wrapped in the safety of De'rax's arms and the quiet promise of tomorrow.
The first light of the ship's soft ambient glow seeped through the curtains as I woke to the warmth of De'rax beside me. His hand traced lazy patterns over my skin, the quiet rhythm of his breath syncing with mine.
We moved together slowly, savoring the calm before the storm—the gentle ebb and flow of closeness, of trust and love, grounding us both.
His lips brushed mine in a tender kiss, fingers exploring with care and reverence, every touch a promise, every sigh a reminder that we faced whatever came next united.
Time slowed to the quiet beat of our hearts, the world outside fading to a whisper.
Then, a soft chime echoed through the room—Silver Lining's voice, calm and steady.
"Captain, we are approaching the outpost. It is time to prepare."
De'rax's gaze met mine, eyes full of fierce determination and quiet support.
"We'll face this together," he murmured.
I nodded, breathing deep, still wrapped in the warmth of our moment.
"Together."The crew gathered in the main room again, the soft glow of Silver Lining casting gentle shadows on determined faces. Weapons were checked, armor fitted—everyone carrying the weight of what was to come.
De'rax stepped forward, his presence commanding yet calm. He took a deep breath, steadying himself, and the room seemed to quiet in response.
"Listen up," he began, voice low but unwavering. "This mission isn't just another raid. We're not here to fight for glory or revenge. We're here because it's right. Because there are people out there—trapped, scared, forgotten—who deserve a chance."
He paused, breathing deeply again, letting the words sink in.
"We move with precision, with care. Our goal is to bring them home, safe and whole. No unnecessary risks. No reckless moves."
His eyes swept the room, meeting each gaze with fierce conviction.
"You are all part of this. Every choice you make matters. Trust in each other—and trust in Silver Lining. She's not the ship she once was. She's ours now."
Another deep breath, slow and steady.
"We do this together. For the people who can't fight for themselves. For our future."
De'rax's voice softened slightly, but the fire never left his eyes. "Let's bring them home."
A murmur of agreement rose around the room—quiet, but full of strength.