Max's P.O.V.

Did they notice?  Did the others notice that, while we were finishing off the Dark Knights' mistress, Claire flashed as something else... or SOMEONE else... what was it?  Will I ever know?

Claire's P.O.V.

We're all going to fall... and it was all my fault.  I forgot about what X and Chrysta said about the platform.  If I didn't forget, I would have everyone positioned in a safe location.  We all detransformed into our normal selves.  Now our powers have given out... and we're all going to die...

I felt something grab my hand.  I look to my right and see Max.  He was holding Jersey's hand with his other.  I see him nod somewhat to my left.  Something grabbed my other hand.  I look the other way and see Serenity, who, strangely, was holding Aera's hand.  That's a first.

"We'll get through this together," Max told me.  Tears fill my eyes.  Reluctantly, I nodded.  I really don't deserve such great friends.  I hurt them... and they brush it off like it's nothing... but it WAS something.  The more time I spend alive, the stronger my powers become... and the more dangerous I'll be.

"Max..." I began, and for some strange reason talking quietly.  Max turned and looked at me.

"Hmm?" He responded.

"I..."  I had to tell him!  I must!!!

"You what?" Max asked?

"I... If we make it through this... I never want you to see me again."

"But Claire..."

"I'm going to hurt you again... I just know it!  My powers might activate again.  I don't want you to be there when it happens."

"Claire..."

"Please, Max.  Stay away from me."

"...okay."  He nodded slowly.

"Thank you."

The ground approached us quickly.  Three, two, one...

And then, everything went dark.

~~~~~

Please don't kill me for making Claire like that!

But it is true...

What if she DOES hurt Max again?

Will they survive?