And for the first time, Cavil wasn't all sarcastic smiles and biting words; he even took a step back in his surprise. The annoying note in the air got steadily louder as Cavil turned it up for Alastair to be able to hear it too.

Kiryu was shocked too, of course, but it was more shock and awe in his case than shock and fear. He'd known that Alastair had had some sort of power before--maybe this was it. The mark on his arm certainly seemed to think it was, as it started glowing in response.

"Alastair, you..."