EntQuest, the Battle for Hector.

[sisterandcousinandaunt]

A pall had fallen over the Teacup. Conversation was muted, and people who entered immediately headed towards the fire, and familier faces. Drinks were ordered quietly, and even Sis's baked goods looked a little forlorn on their perch near the kitchen.

Everyone was oppressed by Hector's coming doom.

As usual, Mari spoke first. "I can't stand it," she said. "We can't just leave Hector to turn to stone. It's not right! He's the President, lame duck or not."

Nautipus looked up from where he was jotting suggestions of possible additions to Brutus's food. "What do you expect us to do, Mari?" He asked, reasonably. "We have no idea how to break such a spell."

Sane glanced over from her nest near the fire. She would not speak, not yet. Let them consider the magnitude of the undertaking, first.