Kire snorted at Ruli’s comment. “Should look much better on you,” she said back, before turning around to watch the Raielwen continue their work. 
“So, which is it? Our soldiers or hers?” Narda asked, grinning. She didn’t bother wiping the soot from her own face and hair. 
“Mm.” Kire looked the elves over. “They’re more put together. But ours look better,” she said in an amused whisper. “[i]These elves are rather…[/i]”
“[i]Stiff? Inhuman? Bloodless?[/i]” Narda said, grinning still. Kire elbowed her, though offered no contradictory argument. 

When the princess approached her, Kire cleared her throat and offered a small smile back. “Any time blood magic is involved, count your lucky stars if things go smoothly,” she replied. “I am glad you were overprepared. After handling the world gate’s energy, I’m rather glad this is what we have to deal with here.” She was silent, pondering Aera’s question. “I think I’ve kept them away from Envy long enough. Unless anyone objects, I assume we’ll all be heading back to him,” she said after a pause. “I am indebted to you for all you’ve done for us, of course. Should you need my help, I’ll do my best to give it.” 

She fell silent again as they watched the wood burn down. “I find I am rather curious about Lithilote, though,” she said after a while. “It’s strange. The lives you live. At some point in our ancient history, I’m sure Amrians were like you, too. Much longer lives. Steeped in magic. There’s some deep, old magic in your citadel. But now we’re closer to human lives like Zeke’s, though we would still outlive them. Do you miss being around that, or are you content with being here?” She turned to Aera, an apologetic smile on her face. “I’m sorry if the question is rather impertinent. But, like I said, I am curious.”