By the time Gracie reached the endless stretch of asphalt, dawn had painted the horizon in shades of amber and gold. He tilted his face toward the emerging sun, every muscle in his body screaming with exhaustion. His magic felt like water slipping through his fingers, each attempt to command the shadows leaving him more drained than before. Standing at the roadside with his hands pressed against his hips, he fought to catch his breath.
Never had he been brought so low. The desperation clawed at his chest, mingling with a rage that threatened to consume what little strength remained. The highway stretched endlessly in both directions, devoid of life or movement. His jaw clenched as he forced himself to start walking, knowing that today speed was not a luxury but a necessity.
