Completely done in, I sunk to the ground and, not caring about the blood or the pain, leaned against another tree as I watched the zombie in front of me turn into nothing but dust. I didn't take my eyes off it for a second until I was completely sure that it wouldn't come back.
Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes. It was over, and I had won.
A rustling sound in the trees caused me to tense up again, my eyes flying open to try and find the new threat. I call up my purple flame, no longer interested in pushing myself to become stronger. I needed to deal with the new threat and then get back to the boys. I don't know how long I have been gone, but I feel their worry through the bond.
The rustling came closer and I raised my arm up, ready to set whatever predator had me in its sights straight to Hell.
The branches just off to the right of me parted and I held my breath, ready and waiting.
