The Only Way

As my eyes flash gold, I put all of my magical prowess into casting this spell. I would never have used such a spell on Max, as it isn’t really a solution to the problem we’re facing. However, it will keep him alive and safe until I can figure out a way to free him from Hafgan’s soul as well as ensure the spirits don’t become unhappy.

Slowly, Max closes his eyes, falling into a deep sleep while a layer of crystals creeps up from his toes to his head, engulfing him in the magical shield I’ve cast over him.

I don’t stop casting the spell until every inch of Max has been covered. It is only then; I allow the exhaustion to wash over me, bringing me down onto my knees. I pant heavily and glance up at my lover. He looks so peaceful within the crystals that it seems almost unreal that he has suffered at all.

I turn to the three remaining men and grunt, “this won’t save him, and until I’ve recovered, I can’t do anything else. We should be safe here, but if any of you know a way to fix this,