Of his people, Zephyrion found Kaelion first. His cousin woke the moment the sun hit him, stared at the desert, then at him, before giving a single nod, as though that alone was enough for him to understand the situation.
Fiona was next, and a soft smile spread across her face the moment she opened her eyes and found him standing there. Zephyrion pulled away sharply before she could kiss him. Realizing it was real life, not a dream, her face turned so red it looked ready to explode. Zephyrion spared her the embarrassment, and himself the awkwardness, by continuing on.
With other cadets now joining the effort, more and more woke at a rapid pace. He spotted Vaelor, Nedra, Draven, Lucien, and Kaelith not long after. Aside from Draven, who cheerfully waved, each threw him a glance before looking away.
