Adam felt the surge of evolution energy gathering within him, a torrent of power begging to be unleashed. But his gaze swept over his companions.
Lilith, her elegant form cracked and weary, holding the silk dome together by sheer will. Ignis, her draconic fire dimmed to embers, body littered with injuries from her desperate bravery. They were hanging on by threads.
The priority became clear.
"Lilith, Ignis," he said, his voice firm despite his own pain. "You two evolve first."
Both of them looked at him, surprise in their eyes and mind-voice.
«But… You're the one who should evolve first,» Ignis protested weakly.
"And you are both on the brink," Adam countered, gentle but unyielding. "That fight took everything from you. A little more power, a little more resilience, could mean the difference between life and death if something finds us before I'm done. Your evolutions will be quicker. Do it. That's an order."
