For a long moment, there was no response save for the crackle of energy. Then, their child's eyes snapped open, shining with an inner light that seemed to pierce Elena's very soul.

"Help me?" Their voice reverberated with ancient power. "You know not what forces are at work here."

Kaden slowly regained his feet, his stance wary but determined. "Then help us understand. Guide us so that we may walk this path alongside you."

Their child regarded him coolly for a moment before descending to the ground, the aura of power subsiding but still shimmering at the edges of their form.

"Very well," they intoned. "But be warned - the...