CHAPTER NINETY THREE - When Time Stands Still

Inside the barrier, Vanessa screamed as another wave of conflicting energy surged through her. The sound was barely muffled by Morgana's spell, primal and filled with rage. "You're all watching me die while plotting against me!" she shrieked, her voice distorted. "I won't be denied what I've earned!" Victor pulled himself to his feet, swaying dangerously. "Earned? You stole what wasn't yours to take, little girl." He lunged toward her, hands outstretched as if to grab her throat. Vanessa responded with a burst of raw power that threw him against the edge of the barrier. The impact sent cracks spiderwebbing across the magical field. "The containment is failing," Morgana warned, her face pale with exertion. "Whatever you plan to do, it must happen quickly." Alexander stepped forward, placing a hand on Morgana's shoulder. "Can we help strengthen the barrier?" "Perhaps," she said, not taking her eyes from her work. "Channel your energy through me—both of you." Christine joined them