Esme's POV
Liam was locked in battle with Jacob, their swords clashing in a storm of sparks. I let out a shaky breath of relief—the gash across my side was finally healing, though the self-repair burned painfully. My eyes swept across the battlefield. Our soldiers still had the upper hand, but the black barrier was swelling, growing larger as Cecily's endless chants echoed in my ears.
I had to stop her. Now.
I reached for my magic, but it flickered weakly.
"Come on, work," I hissed.
"Cosmo, please," I whispered desperately.
For a brief moment, the magic flared to life—then vanished. I exhaled in frustration and forced myself to my feet. Cecily couldn't be allowed to open the portal.
"Kaida, help me," I murmured.
"Yes, Esme," came her steady, determined reply.
