Author's POV
Sandra's breathing was ragged, blood trickling from a wound on her side as she ran forward and raised a trembling hand. Summoning that burst of air to snuff out Pierce's flame took great more energy than she had ever imagined. But if she did not act now, there would never be a second chance.
Her exhausted eyes settled on Pierce, who blinked in shock. Before Pierce could react, Sandra muttered an incantation under her breath. She only managed to graze her forehead though, as Pierce threw out a hand and shoved her away.
But the incantation was enough. A shocking pulse of energy rippled outward, knocking everyone back a step.
Pierce gasped, her entire body rigid. Her arms froze, suspended in mid-air, and the flame that had flickered there went out at once. Her mouth opened in
