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“This type of weapon is perfect for weaker…” Lazar bites his tongue, “I mean,smallerpeople – who could otherwise have a weapon taken from them and turned against them.”

The towering Aurelian steps closer.

“Here, Natali - place your finger on the Orb.”

The handle of the gun has a small circle carved out of the sleek, black material. Inside is nestled a tiny Orb.

It’s only the size of my fingernail, but the glowing, blue-black bead draws the eye to it like it’s alive.

The little nub is made from the same otherworldly material of the powerful Orb-Blades these Aurelians carry. I try to pull my eyes from the little glinting bead, but I just…can’t.

It has this deep, endless depth to it. I cover it with my index finger…

…and nothing happens.

I’d been expecting a shock, or to feelsomething– but I guess it didn’t work.

Lazar seems unperturbed at the lack of response.

“It’s not like a trigger, Natali. Here – point it at the walloppositeme.”

I turn, aiming for the far wall. My heart starts to beat like a drum.

I’ve never fired any type of gun before – much less an otherworldly weapon like this. I mean, I’ve heard thethumpof the sentinel’s high-powered rifles, but I’d never have thought that I’d be the one with my finger on a trigger.

The wall opposite is grimy and dirty. I remember the broken support beam that Lazar is sitting on, and I suddenly imagine the other walls crumbling down around me if I blast one of the few remaining walls. I certainly don’t particularly want to get crushed by a falling building!

“Uh, Lazar? Aren’t you worried the building could cave in?”

Otho’s booming laugh fills the room.

“You’ve been living behind walls for too long. Take a risk.”

Take a risk?

A stupid, foolish risk.

Nevertheless, a smile comes to my face. I’m feelingalivefor the first time in as long as I can remember.

Standing up, I focus on the wall opposite. I can’t believe what I’m about to do – but I’m still going to do it. I raise the gun nervously.

Then, I hear the footsteps of Lazar approaching from behind me. His comforting bulk dwarfs me as I stand there.

“See that black mark on the wall?” Lazar breathes – with no idea of the effect his proximity is having on me. “Aim at it, Natali. Aim at it – and thenthinkthe gun is going to fire.”

I think:Activate.

Before the thought is even fully formed, a blue-black beam erupts from the barrel of the pistol, scorching the wall in front of me like the kiss of a dragon.

I gasp out, exhilarated at the power beneath my fingertip.

Then, I gasp again – as Lazar’s huge hand comes down to rest across my shoulder.

He’s still touching me as I turn to face the powerful alien – looking up at his towering visage, giggling with exhilaration at what I’d just done.

“Did youseethat?” I gasp. “I just fired agun!”

Lazar did see that. He grins, showing his perfect, white teeth.