“I’m not using my magic to help you do anything. Where’s my mother?” I demanded.

“Your mother is gracious enough to lend her assistance. If you want as painless a fate as possible for her and yourself, I’d suggest you oblige us with your magic.”

It wasn’t unlikely that my mother would help someone in need. She was far softer than I was, but I remained unconvinced. I kept the handgun pointed at David, Alpha of this pack of criminals and miscreants, while I stormed forward with ...