"Have you spoken to Aerta or Danae about it? They're mages, and they should be able to help" Iskra suggested.

"Yeah. Thanks. I know the sorta of things I want to do are risky, but I won't take any unnecessary chances. My love for you is greater than any love of glory. I won't deprive our family of its father" Kos explained.

"We don't really know what he's doing in the gem, or what he can see or what he can do. We'd love to know. Perhaps my mother would know" Larek said.

"Yeah. I suppose we can do that when we're alone, whenever that is, and the sooner, the better!" Veax replied, enthusiastic. It was rare that he should be so eager. Unlike most dracon males, Veax wasn't afraid to show emotions. He hadn't had much intimate time with Hermia as Larek did with Nyx or Caex with Avera, due to his low self-esteem and shyness. This coyness was in spite of his supportive upbringing, his deep love for Hermia, and a physique most males would envy. It had taken a while, but he was finally gaining confidence in this matter.