"They're like machines. Close to death one minute, playing around like normal kids the next," Ito said in disbelief.
They sat in the shallow part of the healing springs Marli first brought Vince to in the middle of the woods. They were safest during the day before the creatures came out of hiding to drink from the springs.
The lot played around in the springs with Mekhi, roughhousing like how they used to. Their scars slowly healing with every passing minute.
"So he was in Paxamal this whole time?" Ito questioned. "Even Blood Stars are weakened in the dense climate."
"Only those who posses the ability of air prosper. They were not created by the Blood Stars. I'm surprised they let Mekhi leave at all. His energy and strength is considered divine up there."
"With his strength, you honestly think they could hold him? Keep him away from his family?..... There's still a bigger issue at stake. He killed the king's personal guard."
"I know. He was going to be an issue sooner or later. He already knows I'm alive and is on lockdown from what Amiire tells me. No doubt their army is in preparation as we speak."
"I'll help you fight," Marli said as he moved to sit with the two, dunking his feet in the sparkling water. "My clan and I will help you. And after saving my mother today, no doubt she and her clan will help too."
"Thank you, but I'm praying it won't have to come to that. For Amiire's sake, I don't wish to kill his father."
Marli nodded in understanding. He would lay down his life for both Vince and Amiire, but did not wish to cause Amiire strife by killing his father and his king. With that, he glanced over at the prince as he played. Amiire dunked Jack in the water before Mekhi snatched him from behind.
He narrowed his gaze, noticing how thrilled Amiire was to be around him. The look he gave Mekhi when he turned around was pure adoration. Finally he understood why Amiire was so sad before.
"So that's him, huh? Your other son everyone's been talking about. You didn't tell me he was strong enough to disintegrate twenty Wilderon soldiers."
"And then some. He said he wanted to get stronger to better protect us. He exceeded my expectations in mastering control over his air abilities."
"Amiire was hurting because he was gone. I know a good deal of Molton lore. Enough to understand that a Molton would never imprint on someone if they didn't love them. But what they expressed in the field, I have never seen a connection like that before."
"They've had a connection since the first day they met..... Do I sense a hint of jealousy?" Vince teased and Marli blushed. Only then did he realize he had been staring at Mekhi and Amiire. He kicked water at both Vince and Ito, making them laugh at his outburst.
"Damn Moltons. I was just curious about his strength was all!"
"You know if you have questions, you could always just talk to him," Ito suggested. "I noticed how you've been keeping your distance. There's no need to be scared."
"I'm not scared!"
"Aww, what a brave little Ultome," Vince commented as they both laughed.
Marli's eye twitched before he charged Vince, dunking him into the water. Mekhi glanced over when he heard the splash. He watched as Vince wrestled the new kid in the water, curious about their relationship. Amiire noticed his new peek of interest and cupped his cheek, catching his attention.
"You don't need to worry, Marli is on our side and is loyal to Vince. He stood up against his entire clan just to protect him."
"I'm not worried at all. I don't sense any alternative intent with him. Just confused why he's been avoiding me."
