The Elemental Wars. Earth - Liv Elizabeth Clark

Their only hope has been shattered and, quite literally, blown to bits.

The ritual halts to a stop when Xan's heart stops and her eyeball completely explodes. But nobody can tell why. Lijin has never heard of such a thing happening and Kakó informs Xan that it wasn't his or her mark's doing. But then another force reveals itself.

Jaguar's never cared much for anyone or anything and has always tried to stare straight ahead and not think about how he's disappointing his parents. Low grades, no friends, doesn't listen, doesn't give a shit, and the fact that he's the outcast vessel for the Serpent Of The Earth.

When he's passing outside while Xan is opened up before being resealed, during this split second moment, Jaguar's and her demons intertwine and Xan's body almost can't handle it.

This opens up the question: do all five Terrors have vessels?

With this new possibility unraveling, the team's only option is to work with Jaguar and try to make sense of what Qinglee really wants. Is it just Xan's death that she craves? Or does she seek more?

With a new ally and another path, Xan has to learn to defend herself and trust the people around her to help. They can't risk her dying. But the question is, what all is she willing to do? And who is she willing to face?

Whether it's an enemy, a friend, or herself?