This time, it was Maxim who slipped, something coming awake and molten in his eyes, a fascination as well as a protective steel.

But it was Emira who answered -- and before she did, her attention went to Kell. Something about her seemed... colder. Far colder.

"We know nothing of a gem -- however, if the blight you speak of is similar to our Black Night, then yes." She paused. "Has Kell told you of the destruction of Black London? Of the Black Night? Is it similar?"