"Blood is one of the strongest ingredients one can contribute to a spell. Though forces such as desperation or love or innocence can certainly add to its power."

The canoe reaches the weedy overgrown bank nearby where Joel stands. Nerium nods her head in invitation for him to join her. The water nymphs trail behind, whispering amongst themselves, clearly scandalized at the presence of another there, nonetheless a male. Nerium turns to them sharply. "Manners!" and they fall silent and still, watching curiously.

"How is your Spencer? Still worthy enough to give you faith in the whole of humankind?"