Ha! Brilliant. This is, as you already know, written really well, but aside from that (or ancillary to it) is the story. I loved this part. Honestly, I had been so caught up in the last chapter, I had forgotten the spell. (Oops!) This just brought both points together beautifully, and Xander's horror at the end was perfectly played.

attempting to plot the shape and texture of the spell. I just love that phrase.

Of course, the hot helps, too!

Exceedingly well done. Now I hope you enjoy your break.