They fled into the marshlands, where reeds whispered and will-o'-the-wisps floated above black water.
Aric could barely walk. The fire had drained him, leaving his skin blistered and his thoughts clouded. Mira kept silent, but he saw the unease in her eyes.
At last, Edran spoke. "Each time you unleash it, the fire binds tighter to your soul. You must learn control, or it will consume not only you—but everything you love."
Aric stared into the dark water, where his reflection wavered. For a moment, he swore he saw not his own face, but a crown of shards gleaming where his head should be.
He shivered. "Then teach me. Before it's too late."