Jessen's eyes widened at the burning cottage, stepping back as the flames caught on the thatch and the roof ignited.

"Is everyone out?" From behind him, he heard Pat approach out of breath. Jess didn't look back, mesmerized by the blazing dance of fire and smoke, unable to move or speak.

Pat's hand landed hard on his shoulder shaking him from his stupor and he looked up at the older boy. "Is everyone out?" Pat repeated, eyes wild.

Jess shook his head, "I- I don't know." His voice was hoarse. Everything felt so faded and distant.

His eyes were pulled back to the house. The fire had consumed almost the entire roof now. Thick smoke billowed from it, stinging his eyes and scraping at his lungs.

He looked down at his hands, black with residue from the spell, and trembling violently.

His chest ached. What had he done?