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One of the suns is already rising again by the time they finally stop running. Their feet are cold and battered, begging for a break. But at least they are covered in sand and dirt, thinks Cassian. No more of that cold, unyielding metal beneath his feet, alight with the potential of bringing about his death in the blink of an eye.
They manage to find a small cave, shielding them from the elements, catching their breath. For a long time, neither of them says anything. They just exist, feeling their new-found freedom washing down their skin, their backs, their faces. Thoughts are racing in Cassians head. How many men made it? How many died during the escape? How will they get off the planet? What has the future in store for him now? How much more horror will he have to go through? How much more is he willing to go through? But, at least in one point, Cassian is certain. He will get those bastards back. For all they did to him. For all the others in that prison. For all of them that didn't make it. For Ulaf. For Kino. For all the people on Ferrix. Determination is burning bright inside of Cassian. So much he wants to do. So much he needs to let out.
But, he shakes his head. He needs to focus on the now. His eyes wander over to Melshi, who has closed his eyes, breathing deeply. A sudden urge takes a hold of Cassian.
“Hey.”
Melshi opens his eyes, looking over at Cassian.
“We made it. We are free. We are alive.”
Melshi blinks once, then smiles sadly. “Can't say that for everyone.”
The wound, still fresh inside of Cassian, burns. Ulaf. Kino. Who knows how many others. “Yeah.”
It's silent again.
Then, “Cassian.”
He earns a look of confusion from his companion.
“My name. It's Cassian. Not Keef.”
This time, Melshis smile is genuine, not burdened with sadness. “Nice to meet you, Cassian.”
To Cassian, it feels like a new beginning. To Melshi, it feels like a fresh wave. A wave of honesty, and kinship. Something he barely allowed himself to feel during his time in that awful place. But now, it fills his heart, his entire body. For the first time in a long time, Melshi allows himself to hope.