The crystallized bits of reality sat motionless in the air for a heartbeat before time snapped back into motion. Elena instinctively set up a barrier to protect Zach from the razor-sharp fragments as they implode.
The crowned Charlie vanished, leaving only powerful echoes of her comments concerning time cracks. But the early tremors persisted, sweeping through the town streets with increasing intensity.
"We need to reach Mayfield," Elena said above the growing pandemonium. "Now!"
They rushed through streets already crowded with terrified civilians. Elena's mind raced; this break from the typical timeframe meant that all of her well planned contingencies needed to be adjusted. However, it also intended an opportunity. The health practitioner's lab may be unprotected, and his secrets and practices exposed.