"Kill anyone that opposes us, of course," Crematia says. She's in her dragon form despite the lack of space because . . . well, just because. Everyone else is small enough to accommodate anyway, so it is no real issue. "It does say that the native wildlife is antagonistic, after all."

She raises her head arrogantly, thinking. The artificial light makes her visible teeth glisten. "In fact, it might be better if I go alone. Volcanic fire, ash, or gas cannot hurt me, as it is part of my nature."