Julien's POV
When we reach the clearing in the center of the barrier, my heart drops at the sight. Cionna is lying out on the grass motionless. I dash to her side and see her eyes begin to shut.
“Babydoll! Keep your eyes open!" I scream.
“I love you, Julien," she whispers just as I reach her.
I cradle Cionna in my arms as her chest doesn't rise. The presence of her magic faint as a kiss of breeze. The color in her cheeks is gone and I feel my rage expand with my every exhale. Two minutes. That's it. I missed her by two minutes. Vaskar cautiously keeps his distance, and I'm grateful. I could rip someone in half right now.
As I cradle her body, I see a ball of dark smoke form nearby. I ready myself for Balast. If he's come to collect her, he will die trying. To my misfortune, I spot Jos
