Everything was happening so fast now. He felt the air temperature drop abruptly just to the right of him. Had it not been for the mental tug, he knew he'd be there now, painfully frozen and helpless to any further attacks. "Fiona!"

If he put enough urgency into it, maybe it would help her break free. He couldn't believe there was nothing of the real her left, not when she was casting spells almost as familiar to him as his own battle tactics. It took a mind to cast spells. They weren't blind instinct. They had fought as a team during his formative years in the Wardens. She was still that young mage from that time. "Damn it, Fiona, you're stronger than this!"

Time was running out. If she blasted him with flame, it would all be over. There was no cover, nothing else to distract her. He couldn't allow it. How many more would she kill when she was done with him? With a feeling of lead in his gut, he charged her again. Come on. Give me something to work with! Hesitate. Just hesitate, and I'll find a way to contain you. It doesn't have to be this way.