Much as the man wished to remain stoic, such a method was beyond his capabilities to withstand. He screamed and yelled, collapsing to the floor as his body lost all strength to do more than writhe. It only increased the pain, but until the magic could eat at his heart or brain, he was lost in agony for his last moments.

There was a struggle. It was for all she was worth, a useless battle against fate colliding with happenstance and, if nothing else, she certainly had determination to spare. There were no words, just fury and denial and perseverance. It would all be for naught in the end. The restraints holding Jacob down did not appear to have any sort of latch, and their seams were quite thin and well-meshed together. The craftsmanship was quite impressive if one could look past how it was currently being used.