Ella’s POV
I wounded at those words.
"Not anymore," I spat back, gripping my blade harder.
The witch hissed, energy arcing at us. Remo blocked with his own warding seal, stones flashing green and silver—then splintering her spell.
The forest shrieked, floor shaking.
I lunged at Dean. He blocked with ease—too much ease. His blade slid along mine. I staggered under some familiar strength I hadn't expected. But I stood.
Remo engaged the witch. Christian dove toward them, Maddox following. My heart clenched.
Dean tried to force me back toward the witch's rune circle. "Help me claim her power."
Something in Remo's growl—a primal refusal.
He disengaged, sprinted toward me. His blade slammed against Dean's side. I felt the impact in my bones but Dean snarled, backing away.
Then an expl
