Eventually, I’m forced to slow my pace as my breath twists tight and my chest constricts. Every time I gauge my progress, I nearly weep. Why is the river still so far away? My stomach rumbles, and my mouth feels like it’s coated with carpet. I run for the next large stand of boulders, seeking shade and another moment to rest.

Once I’ve recovered, I check behind me again, and my blood runs cold.

Two black shapes move in the distance. I recognize their armor declaring them as Rion’s soldiers, and they’re approaching much too fast.

Sucking in a panicked breath, I turn around and continue running as quickly as my tired legs will take me while I consider my next move. I could just blast them away, but I’ve hurt enough people for one day. These men serve Rion though, so why would I feel bad about that? But maybe they don’t have a choice.

More importantly, I don’t know if these two spotted me and started running or if they told the king first. If I use my magic, it’ll be a bright flashing light revealing my exact location. I’m almost sure that if Rion knew I was running this way, he would come after me himself. I decide to take my chances and hope I can outrun them. Those uniforms look heavy, and the black fabric must absorb a thousand degrees of heat. Hopefully, it slows them down.

The sun beats overhead with an unrelenting force, and I’m gagging at the lack of moisture in my mouth. I’d give literally anything for some water. Where is that rain when I need it?

Finally, the channel crossing looms in the distance, spurring me forward. When I peer over my shoulder, I see the Aurora soldiers gaining on me. A flash of metal reveals a canteen they pass between them—they have water, putting them at a distinct advantage.

I consider confronting them before I look ahead at the forest that grows beyond the beach. I need to be strategic. Think about the consequences of my actions. My best plan of escape right now is to let everyone think I’m buried in the rubble. It’s the only chance I have.

Finally, I reach the channel. The river flows below a raised bank about six feet high, and I plunge into the water. It’s the best thing I’ve ever felt in my life. The cool water mixes with the nearby ocean and is too salty to drink, but at least I don’t feel like I’m about to melt into a puddle of fire.