Dominic gathered every bit of strength in his body. His core—deep in his stomach—burned hot like fire.
—Anyone who gets in my way, disappear!
He could feel flames start to wrap around his body. His magic broke free, spinning out of control and running wild.
—Burn it all down! Everything in the way—gone!
"Captain!"
With a voice that sounded almost like a scream, Louis struck him hard in the pit of the stomach. A sharp, crushing blow knocked the wind out of him, bending his body in two from the pain.
"I'm sorry, Captain," Louis said.
Then came a sharp strike to the back of Dominic's neck.
And everything went dark.
...
When Dominic opened his eyes, he found himself lying in his private room at the fortress. He had no memory of how or when he was brought back. He shifted slightly, sensing someone nearby.
"Captain Dominic. You're awake?"
