Naya pushed herself out of bed on an aching elbow. Last night’s events were a blur, but today’s hangover, with its dried mouth and throbbing headache, was very real. A note rested on the floor next to a round violet flask.

Dear child, please stop dreaming or imagining things. We talked about this. It drains us to reshape the world back to what it was. Quaff the potion in the flask (yes, dear, the whole thing. I know it smells, but it’s the only way). But not before you bring back your brother. Please? Otherwise your father will have to intervene and he may have to destroy this world too.

Love M.