<div class="floatright">(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y156/jillvader/mw-nmfkmpkarimonero_zps55a1bf27.jpg)</div><em>Five of us. Maybe more.</em>The harsh realities of the numbers were sobering, and as much as Damien’s words had left open a window of hope, she knew that it was likely that there would only be a small number of survivors. Even then, she knew that there would be those who didn’t want to go on after such a crushing defeat. Reality told her that at best they could guarantee two; herself and Damien. Anything after that would be a bonus.<br/><br/>“Thank you,” she managed, her voice calm but with that ever so slight waver that made her emotions clear. Kari was putting on a brave face; she was the commander’s daughter and heir and would be their leader now, and as such had to look strong. But she was also very much still human, and right now was a human who was reeling from incredible losses. The two sides of her were in conflict, and it was hard to say which was winning. “Keep me informed if the situation changes any.” It was the best she could manage, more excuse then anything else as she left the room.<br/><br/>She headed back through the ship, doing her best to keep an impassive face, lest some of the crew or another survivor see her.<em>Get yourself in order, Kari</em>she told herself, taking a deep breath.<em>First thing, clean yourself up. You stink. Once you’re refreshed, then you can face whatever else that happens.</em>It was a critical and truthful self-assessment, but something that gave her a hint of breathing room.<em>Clean yourself up. Look good for everyone else, and give yourself a couple of private minutes to not think about what will happen next</em>.<br/><br/>Kari stepped into the shower room, pulling off her cooling vest, shorts and boots, each coming off with an audible peel from where the sweat had glued them to her body. She was about to start on her bra and (embarrassingly immodest, especially under the circumstances) briefs, when she heard something from inside the shower proper. Pausing, Kari hazarded a glance inside, really not sure what to expect given what had happened.<br/><br/>There was someone in the shower, curled up in a ball against the wall, features obscured save for a shock of light coloured hair that made them instantly recongiseable. “Allia?” Kari asked as she stepped into the shower proper, more concerned for her lieutenant and friend then anything else.<br/>