We spent the rest of the afternoon in the bookstore, reading about my ancestors. Learning about their powers and their sacrifices. By the time we left, I felt more connected to my heritage but also more aware of the weight I carried.
"Thank you for this," I said as we drove home. "For understanding what I needed even when I did not."
"That is what mates do. We understand each other in ways no one else can."
When we got back to our temporary housing near the construction site, there was a message waiting. From Theodore. Urgent. Come to headquarters immediately.
"So much for our day off," I said, sighing.
We drove to coalition headquarters where Theodore was waiting with Serena and Aurora. Their expressions were serious.
"The First Born contacted me," Serena said without preamble. "The
