The halls shook with their warning, practically collapsing as the dragon's roar punctuated the King's command, "Turn him over, Sarina, he is an abomination. Even the dragons do not accept his form. Turn him over now!"

I could feel the heat rising behind me. Jaron was preparing to blast the whole lot of them with his newly discovered fire breath. It was an effective show for an adolescent, but would do little to protect either one of us. In fact, it would provide even more ammunition for the King and the Dragon Elders to carry out the death order. No. I had to get him to stop. Had to get them all to stop.

My staff illuminated at the thought, doubling the light in the darkness of the cavern. Sparks of electrical energy leaped about the ancient jewel seated in the handle. The magic longed for release, ached to join forces with Jaron's fire and decimate our opponents. But I couldn't let it happen. Couldn't blast the King - my father. Not yet.

I stepped back as I whispered my response, "Please, Father, don't hurt him. He means no harm to the kingdom or the Dragon Council. He's just simple-minded. The twists in his mind are treacherous, yes, but possible to follow. I can control him. Please let me help him. Please."

"No! We cannot risk another of his kind. You cannot control this, this creature. Step out of the way, girl! This is not your decision."

The heat behind me singed the hairs on the back of my neck, threatening to leave Jaron's mighty jaw. He didn't care who he hit. He would kill them all if his strength would allow it, but it wasn't time. I needed him to grow. To evolve into a beast capable of dominating the entire kingdom, not just a cave full. I needed to ensure our escape.

The staff whistled again, singing its electrical song, and this time I understood. It didn't want to use the energy to destroy. No. Just distract.