Eratz leaned down as he spoke to the kids.
"Look, I know you're scared, but trust me, we can handle this. We've been through worse, and we're not going in blind this time."
Milo shook his head, his voice cracking as he spoke.
"But those birds... they almost killed you. I don't want to lose you again."
Colin nodded, her red eyes wide with worry, her hands trembling in her lap.
Mercury leaned forward, resting a hand gently on Colin's shoulder.
"Hey, it's okay to be scared, but we're tougher than that. They kicked our butts once, so now it's personal."
Colin hesitated, glancing at Eratz with uncertainty.
"But what if something happens? What if you don't come back?"
Eratz smiled and reached out, ruffling her hair gently.
"You're both here, Colin. Did I ever lied to you? I know we will do it, like always, we always find a way. And you are here with your fire. We will be fine."
