[ A home. The word might seem simple enough, but it holds a lot of significance. Kaede has decided to settle in here, has chosen this place over the world in which she was born.

Of course, in the next breath she confirms what Zack had already guessed. She's dead back there anyway. There's no reason not to see this as home.

So he nods, understanding completely. In a few months, he'll likely be in her shoes, even if he's still not quite at the point where he can think of Aefenglom as 'home.' ]

I hope that doesn't happen. [ There's a brief moment of hesitation before Zack reaches out to set his hand on Kaede's shoulder. ] I hope you get to stay here for as long as you want.

[ Now, does he say something? Maybe she already knows. She was honest with him, though, so it seems only right to return the favor. He pulls back, retracting his hand, and then manages a bright grin. ]

Anyway, I'm in the same boat, so I get what you're saying.