“You are thinking.” It was not a question; it was an observation that was correct.

Xavier turned to Mia with a smile on his pale face and said, “Yeah, counting down the days to the war. It is hard to count when I know I won’t be here.” He replied bitterly.

She reached out and stroked his face slowly. “Do not think about that, Xavier. Think about us and now, and think about everything you set up to ensure victory for your people.”

His hand came up to her hand on his face, and he took hold of it. Slowly, he squeezed down on it and said, “I do not...