Morgan took a breath, still ringing in the sudden silence inside her bubble shield. Her mind torn along now familiar paths, she had access to greater portions of her talents and a well of raw power.

The voice continued to laugh, How long can you keep that up, my dear?

Such power had a price and her time was running out. She grit her teeth, grabbed Derrik’s wrist and tugged him toward the girl. Blue eyes reddened by tears stared up at her, and she tried to keep her smile as reassuring as possible. Outside her shield she felt pressure, subtle and sharp, trying to get past her guard.

She was losing. It was only a matter of time before she fell, leaving them all unprotected. Past her limits, she Broke further.

The voice stopped laughing, Oh, you shouldn’t have done that.

Her nose started to bleed.

Are we too late, Morgan?

She sagged with relief, Rumor…

Hang on sweetheart, we got ya, Shields went up around the trio, layers of them and with a sigh Morgan allowed herself to slide into darkness.