Energy burst out of Asuriel like fireworks, celestial fire and abyssal darkness exploding within the confines of the barrier. Then, the power rushed into Elara like a violent river.
Elara's veins glowed like molten gold, then started to crack like glass. She looked like a porcelain doll had been thrown onto the ground. Her breath grew ragged, and she gripped Asuriel's hand tightly.
"Live," she whispered through gritted teeth. "Make this worth it."
The older woman slumped forward as the power filled her, effectively bursting her from the inside. Her body started to dissolve in wisps of twinkling golden light and black smoke. Asuriel gathered her strength and leaped up from where she was lying on the ground to catch Elara in her arms.
"Please, don't leave me…" Tears streamed down Asuriel's cheeks, mixing with the ink spilling from her trembling hands.
