The Sphere

“Here's how this is going to go,” Raeth said. “You're going to put down that little ticking time-bomb of an apocalypse you're holding there.” They took a step closer. “I'm going to pick it up.” Another step. “And then you're going to run like hell.”

The woman nodded, electricity arcing around her bobbing braids. She placed the sphere at her feet, eyes never leaving the calm presence standing before her. Sparks trailed away as her hand left its surface. One shaky step back. The lightning licked at her feet, tickling.

“Okay. Good,” Raeth said. “Now. Remember that last part.” They leaned down and swept the sphere into their hand.

The sphere made it clear it was not happy.