Book 7: Annihilation

Ella

There’s nothing in my head but the sheer will to survive as Petra swings Ryatt’s sword. She miscalculates how heavy it is, and based on the way her arms tremble and bow, she’s never wielded a sword before, either.

The gem-encrusted hilt slides out of her hands, the sword whizzing through the air. A screech of pain sounds nearby, and I spare a glance in the direction of the sound.

A wolf—one of Petra’s warriors—is twitching on its side while blood pools around his body.

I don’t hide the smirk that stretches over my cracked lip as Petra slowly turns her gaze back to me. I step to the side, then step again, putting a few feet of distance between me and the deranged witch. All around us, warriors, guards, and even some of her slaves are starting to gather to watch the fight.

I mean to give them a show they’ll never forget.

If I can muster the strength.

Each step is painful. Each breath rattles through my lungs. My blank tho