Whatever reservations Celeste still had faded when she saw Maia's concern. The Shoryan woman had done everything in her power to help. Surely even Dugald was swayed, or so she hoped. At least the scowl had left his face, and he was nodding as he listened to Maia's instructions. He undid buckles and stripped off Malhar's hauberk, shirt, and swordbelt.<br/><br/>Transformation magic was not Celeste's specialty, but there was nothing to do but try. "I know a few," Celeste said. "Captain, please stand aside. There could be a reaction." She waited until he had moved, gently lowering Malhar to the ground, before summoning her magic. Its warm glow filled her. She turned her thoughts to earth and stone, suffusing him with their strength. At once his skin began to darken. Dull, grey, and strong as granite. But when the changes reached his leg, there was a flare of rainbow light and she could feel her spell unraveling.<em>No!</em>She closed her eyes, pouring all her strength into her magic, holding nothing back. It burned within her like a new star, and she thought she might burst from the pressure.<br/><br/>With a gasp she fell heavily to her knees, staff clattering to the ground. She felt as though she had spent an entire day lifting rocks. Did it hold? Dreading what she might find, she raised her head, and heaved a sigh when she saw Malhar's stony skin.<br/><br/>"Time is made," she announced as she rose wearily to her feet. "Captain, get him on a horse and ride ahead. Take one other with you, and leave the rest with me." For once he did not argue with her, and a cloud of dust rose in the wake of three galloping horses.<br/><br/>Celeste dragged herself to where Maia was surveying the ruins. "I wanted to thank you, for everything you've done," she said, and then a note of sorrow crept into her voice. "And I am sorry for what you had to do. It cannot be easy, knowing these were once your people. I wish to offer what aid I can. Will you come with us to the outpost, as an emissary of the Shory? Governor-general Galadon will wish to speak with you."<br/>