Only a few rays of the sun remained, the orange and yellow hues casting peaceful radiance over the trees. Dmitri stood with Nikka and The Kodiak.

He turned away from them when he spoke. "We travel to Cheri's territory tomorrow and fly out from there. Everyone will go."

Nikka took his hand trying to comfort him. He squeezed her fingers gently, loving her, and knowing his gift could kill her.

He pulled her close. "I need to do this and both of you must be prepared ...