Black Moon Draw(83)

He appears earnest, but he has every other time we’ve interacted. Rarely do our interactions end well.

“I don’t believe a word you’re saying,” I snap, sorrow turning to fury. “The Shadow Knight has been betrayed by everyone he trusted. I, too, let him down, refused to help him when he asked, and left him to the fate only he was able to see so clearly. I’m a fool, but you’re worse! You’ve known this was coming for a thousand years and chose to screw him over instead of saving your world!” My shoulders sag. “It doesn’t matter. I can’t help him. No one can.”

I never should’ve left his side. At least then I could’ve used the medallion to help him. I can’t imagine what he’s going through right now facing the oncoming armies and knowing he failed after a thousand years.

I rack my memories for any clue the warrior queen might’ve given me about what to do now. No notes appear on my hand, and fear blooms within me.

There’s nothing to guide me this time. The hole in my heart is growing, and I don’t think a bout of self-confidence is going to help me save the Shadow Knight. I have the urge to hug him, wrap my arms around him and wait for the world to end together. It’s not his fault his family was cursed, not his fault if he can’t stop what’s coming.

It’s not fair. Even if – by some miracle – this really is fiction – it’s still not fair.

There has to be some way. I can’t give up now.

“Let us think for a moment.” The Red Knight is trying hard not to explode. I can see it on his face and in his jerky movements. He sinks onto a chair and grows quiet.

I’m not holding out any hope that he can bring my magic back or convince the Desert Knight not to attack.

“The Shadow Knight would know what to do,” I point out. “He always does. I bet he’s already got a plan on how to win and save the world.”

Disney Princess appears hopeful, while the Red Knight scowls.

“I believe you have a chance to help,” he says finally. “No other battle-witch needs a medallion. Does your hand tell you aught at all?”

I glance down and shake my head. Even the scary countdown is gone.

“Still, ‘tis possible your magic is simply dormant,” he reasons. “Or mayhap, there is another medallion, trinket or secret the Shadow Knight knows. I dread to think I will have to outwardly oppose the Desert Knight to put an end to this.”

“You do not have the numbers, brother,” Disney Princess says.

“No, but I can create enough of a distraction to give the Shadow Knight and the battle-witch a chance.”

“You’re serious?” I ask, surprised. “You really are an ally of his?”

“I want what is best for my realm,” he replies, somewhat irritated. “And I want to ensure you return home, for reasons we discussed. It seems to be in my best interest to assist.”

“Why do you want to go back with me?” I ask once more.

“Those reasons are mine.” He stands. “The Desert Knight is likely watching us. Sister, remain here. I need to devise a way to smuggle you out, witch.” Without another word, he leaves.

I bury my face in my hands, tired and stressed out. I can’t take my mind off the Shadow Knight or get rid of the wired energy boiling up inside me. I need to see him, to make sure he’s okay, to smell his brownie-leather-clover scent, and help him the right way for once.

We sit long enough to snack on some hard cheese and bread. Wine helps loosen my tense muscles. Disney Princess seems as distraught as I am, her gaze frequently going to the entrance.

I’m a little jealous of her, even knowing what she’s done. She had a man like the Shadow Knight in her hands for a year, long enough for there to be more than friendship between them.

“Does the Shadow Knight know you were betrothed to another?” I venture, not caring if it’s my business or not.

“Aye,” she admits. “I swore him to secrecy.”

Ugh. That makes me feel worse. He was serious about me being his queen. If only I’d known . . .

Am I seriously considering a proposal at a time like this? I don’t know what I’m thinking. Regret is heavy in my gullet, settling beside the guilt of knowing I’m the first battle-witch in a thousand years unable to protect the Heart of Black Moon Draw.

I study the cracks of the crust of the bread in my hand. There are moments when I want so badly for this world to be real and others when the possibility of dying in two days horrifies me.

“M’lady.” The Desert Knight’s harsh tone makes both of us jump.

Disney Princess hops to her feet, gaze sliding to Westley, who enters behind his father. I stand more deliberately, dread sinking into my gut.

“Where is your brother?” the Desert Knight demands gruffly.

“I am unsure, m’lord,” she replies with a pretty curtsey. “We were resting.”

His tan gaze falls to me and I resist the urge to shrink away. He signals to men behind him and two warriors enter the tent, approaching.

My fingers drop the bread automatically. Before I can move, the two each take an arm. “What’s happening?” I ask, heart in my throat.

“New plan, witch.” The Desert Knight turns away smartly.

I glance at Disney Princess, who is frowning. “Go get him!” I mouth the words to her.