Silverthorne’s blue eyes narrowed. “So we are on our own.”
Penelope bowed her head. “I’m afraid so.”
I got up from my seat and started pacing. “What was the point of helping all those ungrateful fae? When we need their help, they run away and shut themselves up in their kingdom.”
Uncle Gabriel rose and put his hand on my shoulder. “Doing good should not come with any expectations or rewards, young Aurora. You do it because you want to. True goodness reflects our inner selves. You don’t need the approval of others to help people. Your destiny is much greater than any ordinary mage or fae can understand. You are the Dawnstar, whether you like it or not.”
I knew he was right, but it still hurt to know after everything we had done to help, the fae were not willing to sacrifice anything to help us. Most of them didn’t even understand if we lost this war, their world would be destroyed as well.
Penelope stood up. “We haven’t lost this war yet. If we can get the Dagger out of Morgana’s clutches, it will halt all her plans. The last we heard, Morgana’s army is amassing in the plains, and the general’s forces are on their way to join her.”
“They are headed for Eldoren, Gabriel.” Rafe paced in front of the fire with me. He turned to look into Duke Silverthorne’s eyes. “Any idea why?”
Silverthorne shook his head and looked around at our grave faces. “I know what you are thinking: that they are after the key. But the last key to the Book of Abraxas is not in Eldoren.”
Penelope glared sharply at my granduncle. “It isn’t?”
“No, and it’s better none of you know where it is. For now, it is still safe. We must concentrate on getting the Dagger back and stopping Morgana’s army from entering Eldoren.”
Rafe gave Uncle Gabriel a pointed look. “If the Brandorians and fae don’t come to our aid, we will never be able to stand against them.” He flicked a glance at me, and his eyes looked troubled. “I have to return to lead my soldiers into battle. I have wasted enough time as it is.”
Uncle Gabriel put his hand on Rafe’s shoulder. “I will return to Eldoren and mobilize the army. You are the only one who can find the druids and help Aurora get into Morgana’s camp. No one knows this area better than you.” He looked at Penelope. “I will take the army to the Eastern Pass. If we can hold it until you steal the Dagger and Santino shuts down the mines, then we may stand a chance. Once we get the Dagger back, will you make sure Izadora sends her warriors to fight?”
“I will do my best.” Penelope held his gaze. “Getting the witches, Brandorians, mages, and fae to fight together will be a task in itself. They will want to see the Dawnstar on the battlefield, Gabriel.”
“Then finding the druids should be our top priority,” said Uncle Gabriel, turning his azure gaze on me. “Besides being able to help Kalen, they may have more answers about your magic. Ashara will accompany you. Going up against Morgana and the general without all your powers is a chance I would rather not take.”
“You know what Lilith did to me?” I asked Uncle Gabriel, not looking him in the eyes.
He nodded.
I didn’t know why I’d foolishly hoped he wouldn’t know I had gone and lost my magic.
I could see the disappointment in his eyes. “The Alkana had a vision. It was she who sent me straight back to Illiador to find you—to warn you to stay away from the Dagger.” He looked into the flames. “But I was too late.”
“Do you really think these druids will be able to do something to help?”
“I hope so,” said Uncle Gabriel, stroking his chin, probably expecting his beard to still be there. “Or the world will be overrun with darkness, and there will be nothing any one of us can do about it.”
Chasing Legends
I awoke to the sound of birds chirping high above, nestled within the branches of the ancient trees that grew in the forest under the ground. Stray beams of shimmering sunlight forced themselves through the holes in the cavern ceiling, through the dense foliage, illuminating the lush green undergrowth that covered the cave floor. Butterflies fluttered about the little bushes and flowers that grew around me, and insects danced at my feet. A light mist hovered on top of the meandering river that made its way through the underground forest and into the darkness beyond.
I had been so tired I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the mat. Not having my fae strength and healing was something I was going to have to get used to again. I had pushed myself more than my body could take and didn’t even realize it. Until now.
Penelope came over and crouched down beside me. “Good! You’re awake.”
I groaned and sat up. My limbs were stiff, and my back was in agony. I rubbed my eyes and looked around. I was the last one to get up. “Where’s everyone?”
“Getting ready to move out,” said Penelope, helping me gather my things.
Kalen was sitting nearby on a rock, cradling his arm. Penelope had made him a makeshift sling so he could be more comfortable.
“How is he?” I kept my voice low.
Penelope’s eyes were hard as steel. “The veins in his arm are starting to turn black. I’m afraid we may not have enough time.”
I put my hand on her shoulder. “We will find a way to heal him, Penelope. We will do everything we can.”
She nodded and gave me a forced smile. “I know.”
Uncle Gabriel was talking to Rafe when we approached them. “I need you to go with
