The vial of liquid in Emily's hand seemed to glow with an otherworldly light. Blackstone's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on the vial.
"What is that?" he hissed.
Emily's smile was fierce. "It's a ritualistic antidote," she said. "One that will sever Zha'thik's hold on you, Blackstone."
Blackstone's laughter was cold and mirthless. "You think a simple antidote can stop Zha'thik?" he sneered.
But Emily just smiled. "This isn't just any antidote," she said. "It's one that's been infused with the power of the ancient ones."
As she spoke, Emily tossed the vial at Blackstone, who tried to dodge but was too slow. The vial shattered on his chest, releasing a blast of energy that sent him flying backward.
Blackstone stumbled backward, his eyes wide with shock and pain. The antidote was working, Jameson could see it. Zha'thik's hold on Blackstone was weakening.
But as they watched, Blackstone's body began to contort and twist. His skin turned a sickly shade of green, and his eyes rolled back in his head.
"No," Emily whispered, her eyes filled with horror. "It's not working. Zha'thik's too powerful."
Jameson's heart sank. They had been so close. But now, it seemed they were about to lose Blackstone forever.
Suddenly, Blackstone's body went limp. He collapsed to the ground, his eyes closed.
"Is he...?" Sophia whispered.
Jameson shook his head. "I don't know."
But as they watched, Blackstone's chest began to rise and fall. He was breathing.
And then, in a voice that was barely audible, Blackstone spoke:
"Jameson..."