"Thank you for everything doctor. I don't know how many rules you're breaking right now, but I want you to know how much she means to us. So again....thank you." The fox sounded sincere saying this, and he gave Aidan a salute before blinking at the term. "Sleeping bea...Ah." He chuckled and nodded "Of course. She'll be up before then, I'll be sure of it." He replied, and watched the doctor leave the room...

Edward had been keeping an eye on Esailia since the doctor had left, leaving the young fox to his task and thoughts. It was strange, seeing Esailia in a hospital bed. She was always so strong, never once thinking about what might happen to her squad if she wasn't around. Edward eventually sat down again, glancing up at the monitors to stare at the line blip with each of his captain's heartbeats. It didn't fill him with relief, but instead of dread that at any moment he might see it flatline.

Soon enough, though, visitors passed through. First Mike, whom he didn't recognize. But, assuming he was from the mission, gave him a thumbs up. The first lie of many he'll undoubtedly make for Esailia "She's stable. Nothing serious as far as the doc can see." he explained, smiling. "The coughing was from so much dust in the mine. But the doctor thinks that was because she was more sensitive to it from something in her past."

Next was Silver, whom Edward jumped up and stood at attention, saluting him. He didn't say anything to the private, just checked in with a nurse before heading out once more. Edward slumped back down in relief at this. The last thing he wanted to do was give Silver a story when he didn't know what Silver knew.

About half an hour later, Nathanial and his sister arrived, Esailia was awake, and they spoke. Nathan explained about Jed and the rest of the mission to Esailia, who in return gave him a firm nod and reaffirming his decision to help Jed. A bit of talk revolved around Esailia's condition, but since they all knew what it was, the conversation was more aimed at what story they'd use. She was shot, passed out, and is now recovering from bruised ribs. "You three know that I am getting worse. Next time we may not be lucky." All three infantrymen nodded solemnly, and that was the end of the conversation.

With the help of her squad, Esailia was settled into a chair in the debrief room, listening intently to Silver. While she agreed her team was better trained in GEAR takedown, her squad had been the only true units on the field best suited to comb the smaller tunnels. She intended to speak up and give ideas in how to integrate them better, when Silver started speaking about another mission. She she held her tongue and waited to hear it...