Merrick doesn't want this to end. He wants to be gathered up tight and safe in Metaari's arms forever, the scent of the bonfire around them, surrounded by the crisp night air. He can almost forget that tear in the sky above, the impending battle for their lives.

He's content to turn slightly and nestle up against Metaari's chest for a while, completely unconcerned that there are other people present. He could almost fall asleep like this, but there are things on his mind.

"I told everyone," he murmurs. "Cyril is all right with it. Teasing me worse than before." He scowls a bit.