Atlas, Edrik, and Lyrassa remained sheltered behind the protective barrier cast by Lyrassa, yet even from within its safety, they could clearly see Morganna's battle outside.
Atlas gently turned Vienne's head away, not wanting the little girl to witness what her mother was doing.
"Mama… Mama…" Vienne called softly, struggling to look past his arm.
Atlas swallowed hard as his eyes followed the terrifying sight beyond the shield. Morganna was completely cloaked in a swirling aura of black and blood-red energy. A pair of dark wings spread wide behind her, and her body was now barely visible beneath the writhing power surrounding her.
She moved like a crimson storm, flying at incredible speed. From her body, tendrils of living darkness burst forth, rushing toward fleeing enemies and dragging them back into her reach.
