[Sadrain]

December 4th, Chicago. Base.

"No, that is all, Amante," Elek said, tiredness edging his voice. He felt that his friend felt as if doubted and distrusted, and realized it could seem so, but he truly hadn't meant it so. He wanted what was best for Amante, and he seemed so troubled now... If Alice's case was so important to him, it would be only natural to free him from Leila. She just had to be quite the headache.

When Amante left, he turned to the papers. It took a little more effort to read them now, and he felt absurdly depending on his friends, especially Aiolia again. But there was no way Elek would disturb her now, when she was training.

Meanwhile, Ryan had gotten up, finished the mourning check up and well being routine and was on his way to Alice. Nurse had brought him few books and although it was not easy to hold it with one hand, he still read for her daily now. Then, he liked to discuss the book with her, feeling very sure that the girl was following his words, and judging by her expressions, Ryan could also tell what she was feeling about the story.