Ikenga studied the small star-born beings more carefully now. He could feel it, the tension in their energy signatures. They pulsed like hearts beating out of rhythm, threatening to either implode or flare violently.
"And you can sustain them?" he asked.
"For now," Maul said. "But they are adapting slowly to my realm"
As if in response, one of the small figures lifted its head. Its eyes twin pinpricks of condensed light met Ikenga's across the vast expanse. A ripple of star-energy flickered outward, cautious but not hostile.
Ikenga felt it brush against his awareness.
A greeting. He chuckled softly.
"You always were the patient one," Ikenga said. "I would have tested their limits already."
"I know," Maul replied dryly.
The snow shifted gently around them, parting as several ice elementals approached in silent guardianship of their lord. Above, the auroras brightened, streaks of violet and blue dancing across the firmament like celestial scars.
