[A few moments ago]
From inside a shallow crater, Elaria slowly opened her eyes.
A dull ache pulsed through her entire body. She groaned, pushing herself up with trembling arms. As her vision cleared and she saw the ruined surroundings, realization slammed into her.
The battle.
Her mother.
Alex.
Her body jerked upright.
"Alex!" she yelled, whipping her head around.
Her gaze landed on Aeliana's unconscious form lying nearby, breathing steady but still. Relief flickered through her for a heartbeat—then the distant sound of battle crashed over her.
Explosions. Shockwaves. Metal on metal.
The forest itself shook as something tore through it.
Elaria gritted her teeth and tried to stand, legs protesting. She forced herself upright and turned toward the direction of the sounds, ready to run.
A voice echoed in her mind.
{ What are you trying to do? }
