I couldn't watch. I turned my eyes away, held Mom as she tried in her weakened physical state to reach Dad. Held her tight and forced myself to block out the howl of pain my father released when Demetrius's crystal started to drain him of his power, glowing brighter as it drew his energy from him.

It wasn't long before Demetrius scowled. He shook the crystal as Dad screamed his agony into the night. The Chosen leader snarled and gestured again as my dad fell to his knees. The ...