As the appointed hour neared Dais couldn't help notice that something was definatly wrong. He had an uneasy feeling that a double edged trap was unfolding, not only against them but against Celine and it protectors.
'You feel it too?' whispered Sage across the armor link, his thoughts focus so that no one else could 'hear' it.
'Yes, Magda knows as well. She hasn't said anything because she wants us to escape with Mia. She doesn't want us to worry about her fate or the fate of Celine.'
'She's been the only one empowering that shield, I first noticed it's weakening when she diverted her attention to training Mia. I believe that is the true reason she asked for Wintrin's help, so that she could return the barrier to full strength while he took over the training.'
'But when he fell unconscious due to that assault she lost much needed time to repair the barrier. That is why it continues to weaken even though she is now using all of her strength to hold up the barrier. I know our first priority is to protect Mia, but I wish to help her. There is a large force gathering outside and I feel that if we don't help her Magda and this entire city is doomed.'
'I feel the same.... I want to be there to protect her, but Mia will be fine. Especially with her new powers, and Ryo can use one of the other armors to call inferno if it is needed. Magda and Celine need our powers right now. So we're staying?'
'Until the danger has passed, at least I will.'
'As will I.'
'Then we should inform Ryo of our decision.'
'Of course,' Sage sent as he widened the link to include the unofficial ronin leader, 'Ryo?'
'Yeah?'
'Dais and I have come to a decision. We wish to remain here and protect Celine,' began Sage.
'We have reason to believe that Magda and the entire city will be in grave danger if we do not,' finished Dais.
'Shouldn't more of us stay if that is the case?' asked Ryo, then he answered his own question, 'No, the others are needed to protect Mia. Maybe Wintrin or Calisto?'
'Calisto, Wintrin should go with you to be sure that Mia learns all she can from him,' answered Dais.
'We had better go ask her then, the hour is almost upon us,' sent Sage as he left the link. Dais and Ryo terminated the conversation shortly afterwards.