The invisible grip on my throat constricted harder, cutting off my air. I couldn't breathe. Spots danced before my eyes as I tried in vain to kick and punch the dark mage holding me. But each time I swung or thought I made contact, my fist or foot went right through his black cloak. It was like I was fighting the wind.
Spell after spell I heaved at him. Even the one I'd done on the bully, Darren, failed. My magic pricked across my palms like shards of ice, it rolled off me into the mage and he only squeezed harder.
I couldn't die like this. Not without seeing my mom one last time. Not without being able to hear Kento laugh again for real or kiss him. And I wanted to learn more about him and Jasper and Reed. I wanted them to admire me, not worry about me and fear what I would do. I wanted
