Merlin's tone brought him back to himself, and as he returned he saw the damage he had done. His face, far too expressive in this form, shut down, and he lowered what remained of his brother to the forest floor, loosening his grip on the lion's scruff.

"Yes." And that was all he said for a moment as he watched Gabriel struggle, until he said sharply, "Swami."

The boy walked toward him, remarkably steady for someone outside of consciousness, and placed his hand over Michael's on Gabriel's neck as if in a dream.

"Now, Merlin. Hurry."