Ralph and the Pixie

In desperation, she transformed and flew for all she was worth. She sensed rather than heard something coming towards her, and changed direction just in time to avoid something hurtling through the air. Flying wildly, changing direction in an attempt to dodge another missile, she found the road.

She didn’t have far to go. Illuminated in her own light were Pran and Deborah, just ahead. Transforming and falling at their feet, she cried, ‘Something is here! I- ow . . . I think I’m hurt!’

Pran knelt down and began examining her. ‘Where- ?’

‘Here. It hit me in the back.’ She began weeping, more afraid than in pain. Deborah knelt beside her friend, feeling as concerned as she felt useless.

‘You’re only bruised,’ Pran said with relief. ‘I would say that you’d found them.’

‘It’s not them!’ Éha cried in fear. ‘There’s something up there, but they’re not Pixies!’

‘Ah,’ Pran said in comprehension. ‘Well, I think we shall have a look, nonetheless.’

They made their way back to the clearing, Éha watching the shadows mistrustfully. It was dark now, and stars were clearly visible. When they reached the middle of the clearing, Pran picked up a stick and drew a circle on the ground around the three of them. He then made an odd gesture, and the circle began to glow with a pale blue light.