Deborah's POV

The shadow moved over the burnt ground like a dark wave. Deborah's hand went straight to Erick's shoulder.

Her fingers dug into his ripped shirt. She felt him shaking from being so tired, or maybe it was her own shaking she felt through their connection.

"I can't," she whispered. Her voice was rough from screaming and using so much power that it almost broke her. "Erick, I can't fight anymore."

His hand covered hers. It was warm, even with the weak silver flames still on his ...