[Sadrain]

December 2nd, Chicago; Base.

Aiolia's hand clawed at Eve's, leaving deep bloody scratches. The others watched with small horror, but mostly interested on juicy details. When the girl fell to the ground, everyone was about to turn back to their exercises, thinking that now all the drama was done and Aiolia would give up, and emotionally bow down to Eve. But she wasn't the kind of girl to do.

Aiolia stood up, coughed once and then grabbed Eve's arm, hurting her and pulled her around. It was so sudden that Eve was most likely unprepared for it and yielded. "You think you proved anything with this little power display? Think again. You might if you can best me, without using your powers when I am healthy. Let's see who has the 'edge' then." With a smirk, Aiolia let Eve go and went off to find her partner for the exercise.

When Elek later found about the whole ordeal, he felt rather guilty. In a way, he was the beginning of this all, and the man knew it. He just hadn't thought it would lead to something like this... But there was hardly any chance that he could settle it down between both woman. Especially since he didn't know all the details or reasons... Aiolia refused to talk about them, and now on top of her training, regular duties, she trained extra hard any free moment. Elek didn't want to read her mind to find what had fueled her so, especially since he had a very uneasy, nagging feeling.

December 3rd, Chicago; Base.

Ryan was happy to see Alice so bright and hopeful. It brought him some hope as well. He brushed his thumb lightly over her light cheek, smiling softly. She was really beautiful when she smiled like this, and seemed so happy. Ryan wanted to make her smile and feel like this, often. Every day, every moment, if possible. It would not come easy, but for such a smile, it was worth it.

The man was about to say something, when someone walked in. "Sorry if I interrupted," Elek cleared his throat, obviously feeling awkward. Ryan withdrew hand and his pale cheeks colored. It felt like someone else had seen a side of him he prefer to keep secret. "I wanted to have few words with you, about your role here, and nurse said you were here." Elek rubbed back of his head. It seemed like he had barged on a quite tender moment and he had to wonder, if he was failing promise given to Amante.

"Ah, alright. We can talk about it in my room," Ryan nodded and then squeezed Alice's hand lightly. "I will come back later, and certainly tomorrow. Rest and get better." He smiled at her and then slowly wheeled towards doors, which Elek held open for him.