It's a feeling in the air that some part of Ami knows very well. It's the same hush that often follows Kunzite as he moves among politicians and dignitaries, or lower-ranked soldiers. It's the same hush that greets Mercury if she acts on his behalf; those who receive his messenger can never immediately be sure if her presence is intended as an honor, or to bring a quick and sometimes cold end to a dispute.

Pretending not to notice it, she follows the Master Chief. She keeps her head and her pride high.

Other places to fight, he says. This is still giving ground. It won't be that easy to take back.