Edge of Memory

Chapter 10: The Echo Between Us

Thunk.

He didn't turn around. "Boring is safe."

"Ugh. Gross. You're really leaning into this broody warrior phase, huh?"

He caught the knife and finally glanced at you. "You usually flirt back."

"I usually get something worth flirting with."

That did it.

He turned, blinking like you'd just smacked him upside the head with a fish.

You smirked. "There he is."

"I—uh—you—what?"

You took a step closer. "You've been avoiding me. Why?"

He scoffed. "I haven't."

"Oh? So the three-day streak of not making a single dramatic entrance was just coincidence?"

He looked away. "It's been busy."

You tilted your head. "I think you're scared."

That got his attention.

He blinked. "Of what?"

You smiled wickedly. "That I might be better at getting under your skin than you are at getting under mine."

He didn't answer — just flushed, scratched the back of his neck, and muttered something about training.

You walked away satisfied.

Not because it meant anything.

But because that look on his face?

Still worth it.

Every time.

⸻

Vox's Resistance

Far from Dragon's Edge, the storm inside Vox began to break.

The scent was still in his memory — barely, but real.
You.

He'd torn the edge of his cell earlier that day, a single deep gouge in the steel frame. He wasn't obeying commands as quickly. His eyes no longer glowed with the drug's calm — they twitched, too focused, too alert.

Grimmel stood outside the containment field now, frowning.

"You're remembering," he murmured.

Vox stared back, unmoving.

"You've smelled her. Felt her. Good. Let it ache."

The Night Fury snarled.

Then Grimmel's smile returned, cold and slow.

"But let's see what happens when she has to put you down."

⸻

Back at the Edge

You couldn't sleep.

Nyx lay curled by the door, crackling with agitation. Her eyes kept flicking to the horizon, wings fluttering even at rest.

You walked out onto the cliff and looked out into the sea.

Snotlout was already there.

He didn't hear you until you stood beside him.

You didn't say anything this time.

He didn't either.

But for once, that was okay.

You weren't ready for answers.

Just... reactions.

And that, finally, you got.