The firefighter was about to protest again. All Laina had to do was raise her index finger.
"I will not repeat myself again," she said sternly.
At that moment, an explosion occurred. All the glass windows shattered as the fire grew stronger. It was like a beast attempting to claw its way out of the shophouse.
Laina did not flinch. She did not move. She was still looking straight at the firefighter. Realizing she meant what she said, the firefighter raised both hands and retreated back as the others did the same.
Laina turned her attention back to the raging fire. She now stood just a few meters away from the front door. She was unafraid. In fact, the crackled and splintering she could hear helped her to keep calm.
Laina held out both hands. Her fingers were fully extended, palm facing the fire. She took in a deep breath, feeling the lick of the heat on her skin as she closed her eyes.
"Devour," she muttered beneath her breath.
