The air moved and changed before it even looked like the First had done anything. With every breath they took, the others could tell that it was growing hotter and hotter. It didn't take long before it felt like they were breathing fire.
The First inhaled deeply, breathing in until the air touched the bottom of his lungs. He held it inside for a moment, just enough to prepare and gather his strength.
Emptying a vessel as large and deep as his of everything it contained couldn't be done instantaneously. It took a little time.
But then again, the First had spent a long time practicing.
Growing stronger was difficult for the Children. In exchange for immortality and blessed strength from birth, their essences and vessels were solid and unmalleable. Taking even a single step forward meant breaking several rock-solid walls.
