"It's a good thing your friends missed," Mark said.

"You don't know they missed. They could have been trying to cripple the ship. I doubt they would have destroyed something they've worked so hard to build," Hamilton replied.

"You mean you doubt they would have turned their backs on a friend so easily? I don't know about that, John. You didn't seem to have too much issue with it yourself," Mark retorted.

The bridge fell silent for a moment.

"I don't suppose it would do any good to ask one last time if you know what Richter is planning?" Mark asked.

"Mark...I knew about the weapon. Neil told me that they are planning to destroy the meteor with it. That one was just a prototype. We built it in Sumira. It's powered by myrrh. I don't know anything else. Are you happy now?" Hamilton answered.

"When we get to Leora, you will be free to go. That is, as long as Shara is ok and you make sure we don't have any issues rescuing her," Mark stated.

"Fair enough, I suppose," Hamilton said.

No one said another word until Ren broke the silence about a half hour later.

"Leora is just ahead," Ren stated.

"Put us down near the myrrh tree, Captain," Mark instructed before turning to his brother.

"Alright, John, let's take care of business."

The airship landed in the clearing, and the hull door opened. Hamilton emerged alone from the ship and was greeted by Shara and the other Torenada soldiers that had been left behind.

"Welcome back, Hamilton," one of the soldiers called over the drone of the airship engine.

"Hello, boys! I trust that all is well?" Hamilton returned.

"Yes, Sir. It's been pretty quiet since you left. How did your mission go?" the soldier replied.

"A few bumps, but nothing worth gabbing about. I would like a word with Captain Nemora if you don't mind, fellas," Hamilton said.

Hamilton motioned for Shara to follow him into the ship, and the soldiers returned to their post near the myrrh tree.

"What did you do to Mark?" Shara finally asked once they were well inside the ship.

Hamilton remained silent and continued to walk.

"John, where's Mark?! Please tell me. You at least owe me that much," Shara pleaded.

"I'm right here," came a voice from the shadows.

Shara turned to see Mark standing behind her.

"Mark!" Shara exclaimed as she ran into his waiting embrace.

As the two lovers held one another, Mark looked at Hamilton and mouthed, "thank you". Hamilton smiled slightly and slowly made his way back outside. As Mark felt Shara's tears on his cheek, he heard the hull door close and then felt the airship begin to lift off.