She gave him a tight smile as he, seemingly reluctantly, agreed. She knew it was a harsh thing of her to ask, but it was something that simply had to be done. When he stood up after kissing her forehead, she sighed softly and followed suit. However, before he made his way to the door, she gently grabbed his unharmed wrist. She pulled him closer, her hand curling behind his neck as she lifted onto her toes, pressing a passionate, yet soft, kiss to his lips. “I’m not trying to hurt you, please know that. I love you more than anything. You’re right, nothing is going to happens, right?” She held her hands to his chest, leaning her forehead against his. “We’ve got a life to live, we’re going to be okay.”<br/><br/>She took his hand, linking her fingers together before leading them both down to the council room. The same five Individuals were seated at the table, and she took a deep breath. Taking a few steps in, they turned to the couple. Another man spoke up, his fingers clasped together. “Strider, that was very impressive what you did back there, and you have our attention. Tell us what you need.”<br/><br/>Malia cleared her throat, playing with her fingers. “The Runners aren’t trained to fight, both you and I know that. They have to be. What’s coming...scouts and messengers won’t be enough.” She looked to Carson, nodding towards the council. This was his army, she wanted to give him the reins.