The protected space inside the Vengeance was already too small for Azu’s liking, but she didn’t mind it so much when Kiko sat down next to her.  

“I’m… no,” Azu answered honestly.  “No, I’m really not.  I don’t like small spaces, and I really don’t like the sound of this wild magic stuff, so… No.  Not alright.”

“I’m sure your friend knows what they’re doing,” Kiko said encouragingly, casting a glance at Cel.  Cel, meanwhile, didn’t inspire much confidence, as they were still wiring things into the wall and muttering to themselves.  

All the same, Azu turned her head toward Kiko and gave her a smile.  “For what it’s worth,” she said, “I’m glad I found the nerve to come talk to you before all of this.  Granted, the threat of death and… magicification tends to be a good source of courage, but… still.”

“I’m glad too.”  Kiko smiled and placed a hand atop Azu’s. “And I hope we make it out of this, because I really want to get to know you better.”

“I want to get to know you better too.”  Azu turned her hand around so that their fingers laced together.  “I don’t want to die.  For many reasons, granted, but getting to spend more time with you is definitely a big one.”

They shared a smile and a small, peaceful silence before they could feel eyes on them.  Earhart watched them with a frown from across the room – though, it was rare to see her without a frown these days.  Azu started to pull her hand away, to keep some form of propriety, but Kiko only held on tighter.  

“She can judge all she wants,” Kiko said, quietly but firmly.  “But I’m here for you, Azu, through this storm and the next.”