We weren't alone for long as we stepped out into the underchamber, Max and Mabel joining us, Sass in human form, Jiao beside him. Trill and Zoe weren't in evidence, but I couldn't think of them now. Not when the ground underfoot shook so badly I fell to my knees next to Gabriel.

My son didn't waver despite the earth's protests, seemingly untouched by the destructive force heaving beneath us. His hands rose into the air, releasing me, the eyes of ...