Lithic knew time was running out. The spell of curiosity that Nology wove around Aphotic was about to break and her siblings were preparing themselves for battle.

This she would not allow.

“Auric,” she called. He looked up, his mouth working as he gazed into the deep emerald of her eyes. “Help me save them,” she pleaded. He hugged her, taking a moment’s comfort from her soft warmth. Then he whispered in her ear.

When he stepped back, her form was limned in green light, her body subtly altered, more round, more ample. Her hair once again golden brown and shining. She smiled, her expression filled with love as she looked upon each of her siblings.

Moving forward, she stood next to Nology. The beast’s eyes dilated as it looked at Lithic, smoke coiling from its jaws. Not taking her gaze off the beast, she leaned down and whispered in Nology’s ear then stepped away.

Knowing the power she radiated was enticing, Lithic moved slowly and once certain she would be followed, jumped from the airship.