"I wish you wouldn't go, Mira." Marcus Alamar said as he clapped his eldest daughter on her shoulder. "I feel this is more dangerous than you realize."

"Requested by name, Dad." She gave him a lopsided smile. "I'm not thrilled about it either, but at least I can keep an eye on the others. Don't worry about me, I'll be back before you know it." She hugged him tightly, grunting and lifting him an inch or so off the ground. He patted her back as she did, groaning.

"Aw, don't hurt your ol' Dad..." She set him down and pretended not to notice the tears running down his face. "You come back safely, you hear? Worry your mother sick." He sniffled and looked away. "I'll make sure the academy doesn't go up in flames while I'm away."

"Just don't be the one to set it on fire, Dad." She said gently.

"Got something for you. Somewhere around here." He reached into his pockets, pulling out a wad of lint, a small knife, and a key. "No, not that..." He checked the myriad of other pockets until he slapped his forehead and pulled it off from around his neck. "Stupid of me, put it there so I wouldn't forget it."

Hanging from a silver chain was a small disc of steel engraved with the symbols of all six Elements, the work incredibly minute and fine. She gave her Dad a raised eyebrow, and he shrugged. "Just something to remember this crazy family by. All six elements together. Maybe help bring you home."

She took it and slid it around her neck with a smile. "You mean the Alamars, or the Academy?" 

He barked a little laugh. "I hope I mean the Alamars, the Academy's a little too dysfunctional for my taste. I'll miss you, little one."

"Dad, I'm taller than you."

"You'll always be my little one."

* * * *

Mira dried her tears as she walked the rest of the way to the airship alone. She approached the ramp, noting that she was the first to arrive, and nodded. As it should be. She sat on the grass and raised her gaze to the sun, drawing strength from the warm rays that fell across her body.