She spun and dipped and jumped. Her dress sparkled in the artificial stage lighting, and the audience held their collective breaths as she brought the music to life. The Bard - Quake hadn't bothered to learn his name - was an excellent musician, but his body faded into the background with Ferne dancing. All eyes were on her.

The ache in his belly grew, but when he saw the serene smile on her face he couldn't help but mirror it.

He'd been late, yes, but he would hold her in his arms again soon.