Anya remained asleep next to him, her head against his chest. Stephanie glanced at Anya, raising one eyebrow before looking back at Basel. "I have an update for you," she said quietly. "I've made a decision regarding Anya."
She hesitated before speaking. "I have been considering the idea of returning her to the Royal Family," she said after a moment. "We could receive credits for it, and our status could be elevated greatly. Plus, it seems to be her desire." She paused before talking. "But... it's a risk, and I know you wanted to perform some experiments. She has not been a detriment to the ship, and she could prove to be useful. So, I'm bringing this decision to you. You have spent the most time with her, after all."
Anya stirred, remaining asleep but shifting her head's position against his chest. Stephanie spoke. "I understand. I trust your decision will be logical and keen."
He hesitated, sitting down beside her and looking over at her with furrowed brows, his expression delicate and unsure. "What would you do if you were given the option to return to the royal family?"
She was still fairly sleepy, and she leaned up against him again, grateful for the return of her pillow. "To return home..." she mumbled tiredly. "I don't know. They are still my family, even if they are not the generation I am familiar with."
He idly brushed her hair back, his brows still furrowed. "And if you could stay here as long as you'd like?"
Her eyes were closed, but she still spoke, although it sounded like she might have been falling back asleep. "Hmm... you're here," she murmured, leaning into his touch, remaining ignorant to his troubled expression. "This is not my home, and this is not my family, but it is something good."
