The group was back on the road once more. Ryella sat on Prompto's lap again, but after the previous night, neither of them were as flustered as they were the first time. The gunman kept one arm firmly around the girl's stomach while he used his free hand to hold hers.

"I coulda gone another round," Gladio said, breaking the silence. The others knew what he was referring to.

"Given her prowess, you should be glad you didn't," Ignis told him.

"Yeah, and just think of what she did to Ryella," Prompto added.

"I'm more worried about what that general said while we were tailing him," Noctis admitted. "He mentioned me...and Ryella too."

The Guardian's eyes widened as she glanced back at the prince. "Me? So, they know who I am?"

"Evidently," the advisor replied. "This means that they're not only targeting Noct, but you as well."

"Do you think...?" Ryella thought over that information. "Could that be why they used that device on me?"

"I'd say so," the shield answered. "After all, why go through the trouble of trying to control you if they didn't have some plan to use you?"

"But why?" she questioned. "They already have a Guardian. What use would I be to them?"

Prompto's grip on her hand tightened. "I don't know, but they're not gonna get their hands on you. We won't let them."

"Got that right," Noctis agreed.

Before long, Ignis slowed to a stop in front of a side road. "The Malmalam Thicket..." he muttered.

"Wanna check it out?" the blond asked.

"Never been one to turn down an invitation," Noctis responded.

With that, Ignis pulled onto the dirt road. Gladio looked over at his little sister. "Hope you don't mind the detour."

The younger girl beamed brightly. "Not at all."

The further they drove, the denser the vegetation got. Prompto's enthusiasm vanished. "I don't like the woods. Too many monsters."

"You kidding?" Gladio replied. "What could be better than roughing it out here?"

The blond scoffed. "A million other things could be better."

Ryella smiled to herself, finding their light bickering to be entertaining. Ignis soon parked the Regalia at an old lot next to a haven. Everyone climbed out and followed Noctis as he led the way down a small path. It was quite a trek across a rickety bridge over the river and up a winding path, but finally, they made it to the entrance of the Malmalam Thicket. Prompto read over a small sign posted right by the path.

"It says 'no hunters allowed'."

Noctis rested a hand on his hip. "Good thing we're not actually hunters."

The group went on in. They immediately found themselves amidst a lush forest. Ryella looked around at the environment. She could hear all manner of birds and insects making noises, and she could smell the variety of plant life all around her. The scents tickled her nose and made her sneeze.

"Excuse me," she said.

"That was the most adorable sneeze I've ever heard," Prompto quietly commented.

Gladio glanced back at the two females. "Iris, Ryella, be careful here. No telling what could come crawling out of the woodwork."

"We'll be fine with you guys around," Iris told him.

Ryella nodded in agreement. "And I should be able to notice if anything approaches."

The six friends remained at a slow, steady pace. It wasn't long before the Guardian picked up on some sounds. She paused, listening closely. She could hear the sound of branches rustling and snapping coming from the left and right. They sounded larger than birds, meaning that it could be a threat.

"Guys," she quietly called. Everyone stopped and looked back at her. Her eyes darted from side to side. "We're not alone here. There's something in the trees on our sides."

The four males summoned their weapons. Almost immediately after, a loud buzzing erupted from the surrounding flora. Several soldier wasps flew out into the open, leaving their hiding spots. Ryella caught sight of one zooming right toward her and Iris. She snatched the younger girl by the arm and yanked her along as she jumped backwards, barely avoiding a collision with the insect. The girls stared up at the wasp now hovering in front of them. It's head tilted to the side, as if it were sizing them up. Ryella bravely stood in front of Iris, her instinct to protect taking over. The wasp raised it's sickle-like legs, preparing to attack.

A massive, bulky blade suddenly cut into the side of the insect, knocking it away while fatally wounding in. The females winced in response. In place of the wasp stood Gladio, a smile adorning his face as he slung his greatsword over his shoulder.

"You ladies alright?"

Iris grinned cheerfully. "Yeah. Thanks, Gladdy."

The muscular man's amber eyes landed on the Guardian. "Ryella, thanks for keeping my sister outta harm's way."

She nodded. "Don't mention it. Defending others is what I was born to do."

"Of all the monsters, why'd it have to be bugs?!" Prompto cried, rapidly shooting each wasp that neared him.

"Stop your crying!" Noctis snapped. "Just focus on killing them!"

"Keep it up!" Ignis encouraged. "We'll soon finish them off!"

Gladio rejoined the battle with his comrades. Working together, the four took down the rest of the soldier wasps. Knowing it was safe, Iris went skipping over to them. "You guys kick ass!"

"Really?" the blond questioned, hoping Ryella had also been watching him. He certainly couldn't pass up the chance to show off in front of her.

"Yeah, and you look cool doing it too!" Iris responded. She nudged Ryella, who stood beside her. "Right?"

The Guardian nodded in agreement, a shy smile crossing her lips. "Very cool."

Prompto puffed out his chest, doing his best to look tough. "We get that a lot."

Noctis rolled his eyes at the blond's attempt at flirting. Ryella suddenly giggled though, and asked, "What was all that back there about bugs?"

Prompto's tough guy act disappeared in an instant. "Well, I don't like 'em. Not one bit." He shuddered. "They're so icky!"

"I'm not too fond of a lot of insects either," she admitted. "Something about their numerous little legs just creeps me out."

"But you seemed pretty bold back there when you defended Iris," the shield pointed out.

Ryella smiled. "That was different. My desire to protect someone can usually override my fear."

Ignis cleared his throat to grab their attention. "If you're finished discussing insects, might I suggest we continue."

Noctis gave a small nod. "C'mon, let's go."

The group followed behind the prince. The path was fairly straightforward, making it easy to find their way. They soon came to a shallow river with a haven on the other side.

"The water appears shallow enough to cross," Ignis said.

"Just don't let the current pull you in," Gladio advised.

While everyone struggled to keep their footing while wading through she water, Ryella found it quite easy. Her excellent balance allowed her to tread over the slippery rocks along the bottom. Iris stumbled into the older girl, clutching onto her arm while she found her footing. Meanwhile, Prompto had no such luck of being close to anyone to keep him from falling. His foot slipped right out from under him, sending him splashing into the water. His friends paused, looking back at him. He scrambled to his feet, shivering at his now drenched pants.

"Aw man! My underwear's soaked!"

Noctis grimaced. "I...really hope that's from the river."

"Weighed down a wee bit," Ignis teased.

Ryella ignored their joking, genuinely concerned for the boy. "Are you okay?"

Prompto managed a weak smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little cold and wet is all."

Nonetheless, she went back and took his hand, carefully guiding him around the most slippery stones. They all went upstream until they made it back on dry ground again. There were a few beautiful waterfalls that splashed down into the river. But in that area, there were multiple shieldshears and mandrakes. But with the boys' skills, they were swiftly dispatched. Continuing through a cave past the waterfalls, the group finally came to an open area. With dead trees all around and a tomb at the opposite end, they knew they'd found what they'd been looking for. The only problem was the monstrous bandersnatch patrolling the area.

"You girls stay back," Noctis ordered. "We'll take care of this."

Ryella took Iris by the wrist and darted over to an old log. The two hopped behind it and hunkered down, staying away and out of sight of the monster. The boys rushed in to confront the ferocious beast. Prompto unleashed a barrage of shots at the bandersnatch, earning its full attention. It charged at him, but Gladio was already prepared to counter. Before it reached the gunman, the shield slung his greatsword into the side of the creature's head. Knocked off-balance, the bandersnatch stumbled to the side, a large, bleeding gash now residing along the side of its head.

Ignis then darted in, focusing rapid slices on one of the beast's legs while it was still wobbly. His efforts paid off when the bandersnatch roared in pain as it toppled over onto its side. With it down, Noctis warped in, slashing away at its body. His allies hurried to help him finish it off. With their combined strength, the bandersnatch was defeated. The boys took a moment to catch their breath, and the females came out of their hiding spot.

"Now then," Ignis said, pushing up his glasses. "Let us retrieve what we came for."

The group walked over to the royal tomb. Like always, Noctis unlocked the door, and claimed the Sceptor of the Pious. With a brand new addition to the prince's arsenal, the party then backtracked all the way to the Regalia. With the sun sinking low in the sky, there would only be a little bit of daylight left.

"Guess we should set up camp," Gladio said. "Can't go driving around after dark."

Noctis gave a hesitant nod. "Got a point. I would've preferred an actual bed tonight though."

Prompto sighed. "Me too. But it's not like we have much of a choice."

"I'll get supper started," Ignis said.

"Oh, let me help," Iris chimed in.

"And...I'll just carry supplies," Ryella added.

They all gathered up their things from the trunk of the car, then made their way to the nearby Telghey Haven where they set everything up. Before long, they were enjoying a delicious Creamy Crustacean Omelette, courtesy of Ignis and Iris.

"What an adventure through the woods, huh?" Gladio suddenly spoke, starting up a conversation.

"I have to say, it was actually kinda fun," Iris admitted. "But that's because I always have fun with all of you."

Prompto hummed. "If it weren't for the bugs, I'd have been cool with it."

Ignis added, "Well at least we procured another royal arm. Our trek through the Malmalam Thicket was a productive one."

"Not to mention watching Prompto slip and fall in the river." Noctis chuckled lightly. "That was amusing."

"Hey!" the blond snapped. "Not my fault the rocks are so slippery!"

Gladio laughed. "Good thing Ryella was there to keep you from falling anymore!"

"Well I couldn't just let him fall and hurt himself," Ryella defended. She gave the tattooed man a slight glare unbefitting the kind girl. "Don't make fun. It could've been you slipping and taking a dip. Then I'd have been rescuing you instead."

The prince blinked at the Guardian. "Oh, I never thought I'd see Ryella being so aggressive." He smirked. "Kinda like it."

Ryella blushed lightly, her expression reverting back into the innocent face it normally was. "Wh-what? I didn't mean anything by it...I just, um..."

"Don't let it bother you," the blond assured her. "Noct's just messing around."

"Aww!" Iris gushed, causing everyone to look at her. "Look at you two sticking up for each other! It's so cute!" Ryella and Prompto glanced at each other, their faces reddening. After a moment, Iris's smile faltered. "I'm...gonna miss all this once we get to Caem."

"What are you talking about?" her brother questioned.

"Well, you guys will be heading for Altissia. We won't get to have fun together anymore."

Prompto grinned. "We can still hang out anytime! Just give us a call!"

"We will always make time for a friend," Ignis told her.

Iris smiled down at her food, taking a small bite. "I'm glad to hear that."

Upon finishing up their supper, the two girls sat together near the edge of the haven, talking more privately. The boys sat in their chairs around the campfire, playing King's Knight and partially listening to the young ladies chatting.

"You have no idea how much I love having another girl around!" Iris exclaimed.

Ryella giggled. "It is pretty nice, isn't it? I enjoy your company Iris."

"By the way, before we reach Caem, you've gotta help me out with something. Just between us girls..." Iris's voice quieted until it was barely above a whisper. "Do you think it's bad to crush on someone you know you can never be with?"

Ryella's eyes widened slightly. "Wh-why ask something like that?" The younger girl simply stared at her with a pleading look in her eyes. The Guardian slowly shook her head, keeping her own voice low as well. "No, I don't think it's bad. We can't help who we fall for, can we?" She gave a reassuring smile. "My brother, Reynard...he loved Lunafreya, ever since we were young. Despite that, he accepted that it was never meant to be. It's never wrong to simply love someone."

A small smile tugged at Iris's lips. "That's good to know."

Ryella tilted her head to the side with curiosity. "Who's the lucky guy to earn your affections?"

Iris blushed lightly, her amber eyes darting toward the boys. "Noct," she whispered.

Ryella immediately understood. Iris was feeling the same way her brother did. She grew fond of someone, but could never act upon that adoration. The one she cared for had already been promised to another. She slowly wrapped the girl in a comforting hug, which was quickly returned.

"I know it's tough," Ryella softly said, "but you'll get through it. Trust me."

Iris smiled to herself. "Thanks, Ryella." She pulled away, a cheerful grin on her face once more. "So, how about a confession from you?"

The older female blinked. "What kind of confession?"

"Well, I did just tell you one of my biggest secrets." She tapped her chin in thought. "But I already know about your crush, so I guess that doesn't count. Oh, here's a question for you---has he kissed you yet?"

Ryella's cheeks grew warm to the touch. "N-no, of course not."

"Will he be your first kiss?" Unable to respond, Ryella shook her head. "Oooh, so your last boyfriend already stole your first kiss, huh? You're so lucky! I wish I could experience my first kiss!"

Not realizing how loud her tone had grown, Iris's last statement caught the ears of the guys. "What was that about a kiss?" Gladio questioned, a little concern lacing his voice.

Iris was quick to wave a hand dismissively. "This is girl talk, Gladdy. It's none of your business."

"I think it is," he argued. "When my little sister mentions a kiss, I think I have every right to know."

The brunette groaned with irritation. "If you must know, we were talking about first kisses, okay?"

Prompto gulped upon hearing that word. Oh, how he'd wanting so badly to kiss Ryella. Every time he looked at her beautiful face, he seemed to imagine what it would be like to feel her soft, pink lips against his own. There was just one problem---he'd never kissed anyone before. He wasn't even sure how to initiate such contact. Regardless, he couldn't keep his eyes from occasionally glancing down at her luscious lips.

Iris turned her attention back to the other girl. "So?" she inquired in a hushed voice. "Tell me what it's like. Is it as magical as people say it is?"

"If it's with someone you really care about, yes." It grew silent briefly. Iris gazed at her with anticipation. Knowing she wouldn't leave it at that, Ryella decided to fight through her embarrassment to elaborate. "It's a very special moment. When you find someone you truly care for and are comfortable with, your first kiss is like...an opportunity to show exactly how you feel without having to say a word. Or at least that's how it felt to me."

"Aww!" Iris gushed. "Now I can't wait for that to happen to me!"

Ryella giggled. "Give it time, Iris. No need to rush it."

Hearing footsteps, the girls looked up to see Prompto approaching. "Mind if I join you ladies?"

The Guardian smiled. "Not at all. But I thought you were playing your game."

The blond took a seat next to the girl. "I was, but I'm getting kinda tired. So, what're you girls talking about?"

Iris laughed lightly, leaning around Ryella to look at the boy. "It's called 'girl talk' for a reason. We can't tell you."

Prompto laughed. "Fair point."

Iris stood, placing a hand on Ryella's shoulder. "I'm gonna join the others for a bit." She flashed the older girl a quick wink and hurried away.

Ryella and Prompto were left alone, gazing out into the darkness beyond the campsite. The boy thought back on what Iris had told her brother. We were talking about first kisses. It got him thinking---if that was the subject, then at least one of them has already experienced it. He didn't need a direct answer to know that Ryella had been kissed before. It sort of made his chest tighten at the thought that her last boyfriend had claimed her first kiss. It actually worried him even. If I did manage to kiss her, what would she think? Would it be as good as her first? What if she freaked out or didn't like it? With all the negative thoughts, he knew he needed to get some of it off his chest.

He cleared his throat, nervous about bringing it up. "R-Ryella?" He kept his voice low. The brunette looked at him, noticing the way his head hung down and he avoided meeting her gaze. "What was it like? Your first kiss?"

A silent gasp escaped the girl's lips. She hadn't expected him to ask that. Though it was no longer much of a secret how much Prompto cared about her, after he'd asked her out, it had become rather obvious to her. But she didn't know small details, such as her first kiss, still bothered him. Ryella truly liked Prompto, she could admit that, and she didn't want him to still think he was inferior to Clement in any way.

She placed a gentle hand on his arm. "It was...a truly special moment." Her honest answer caused a frown to tug at the blond's lips. "And I will never forget how wonderful it was to know someone felt so strongly about me." She slid her palm down his arm to rest over his hand. "But you know what? I can actually feel that...that magical sensation all over again when I spend time with you."

Prompto finally lifted his head to look at her. His expression was of pure shock. Her beautiful smile and honest words did wonders to ease his mind. A giddy grin broke out on his face, relieved and overjoyed by such a simple response. Ryella carefully scooted closer, curling up a bit as she leaned against his arm. Her head rested on his shoulder, causing his face to light up. He slowly leaned his head against hers, and shifted his hand under her own, lacing their fingers together. He hummed lightly in content, a goofy smile on his lips. A comfortable silence fell over them. All they could hear were the sounds of the outdoors, the crackling of the fire, and the casual moving about of their friends.

Before long, Ryella let out a tired yawn, causing Prompto to chuckle. "Getting sleepy?"

She nodded slightly. "Yeah, I am."

Prompto opened his mouth to respond but was interrupted by a yawn. "Me too. Probably about time we get some sleep. C'mon."

Still clutching her hand, the gunman slowly rose to his feet, bringing the girl up with him. Iris and the boys had been quietly on their phones and having simple conversations. They too were about ready to get some shut-eye. The group got things cleaned up before piling into the tent. With Iris present, there was less space inside than there normally was. Everyone was packed closely together. Prompto found himself fortunate enough to be laying right beside Ryella. Her back was turned, but his body was extremely close to pressing against hers. He could actually feel the warmth radiating off her.

The boy was still a bit worried about the day when he'd finally build up the courage to confess everything to Ryella. He wanted to tell her how much he liked her, he wanted to hold her in his arms and kiss her lips. But it still frightened him to no end to even think about it. Instead, he'd rather just enjoy the moments he had with her. Hopefully, with a little more time, he'd be able to confront her about everything. Prompto huddled as closely as he could to the girl without actually touching her. With a weary smile, he finally closed his eyes.