Barely breathing, body stiff with tension, Mila forced herself to roll toward the vent. It was harder than it should be, as if that awful sound had stolen energy. Each rock she made sounded loud to her own ears, making her flinch each time, holding her breath.

Neither of the DeNaga uncles moved the other still on lookout while Uncle Vidna rolled his shoulders and swung his arms, humming a tune Mila knew well. The familiar song was oddly comforting, helping to relax Mila just ...