The atmosphere in the cave had changed, and the ghostlike form of a goddess appeared in front of her. Emer recognised her as the one the people of Aria worshipped simply as "The Goddess". Emer moved into a kneeling position, not as a sign of worship, but as a precursor to standing.
'I think you have already guessed, haven't you?'
Emer nodded as she moved to her feet to look the god directly in the eyes. 'This is some sort of choice between my family and the freedom of my animal forms.'
The goddess raised both her hands palm upwards, gesturing for her to continue.
'Are you telling me to keep one I must give up the other?' Emer's voice trembled. To never be able to change form again was like cutting off a limb. Her life would be completely different. Would she still be the same person if she did? But it was no choice - she would always choose her family.