---
Down below, the squads retreated once more. The basin quieted again. Even the lightning seemed to slow. Like the storm itself was watching.
Kai's gaze drifted to the swirling essence pool, the funnel of silver that pulsed like a slow draining spiral heart. It hadn't peaked yet. But the rhythm was growing more erratic.
Beside him, Miryam shifted in her sling, still curled like a comma, her breath even. She was glowing softly, residue from the essence dose earlier still flickering along her tiny body.
Her tail flicked once. Then again.
Kai placed a palm gently on her head, brushing a thumb across her ridge. Her eyes didn't open, but a soft chirp echoed in the soul link.
"
He smiled. "Sleep then, little queen." He was happy Miryam called him Papa. Earlier she used to call her Father and her sentences were broken. But this time, she speaks properly. It looked like her intelligence was growing.
Behind him, the squad returned to their quiet preparations.
