Page 32 of Kell

She glanced over as smoke swirled over a small rock and it was consumed by the smoke. “It’s worse than I thought. If we don’t get these objects to her, the temple will be consumed.”

The realm is shrinking, but only a small piece needs to survive and exit the gateway to your world. A beach starts with a single grain of sand.

She considered his words. “It’s not about the temple surviving, just Adara and you.”

Ren licked her face.Only Adara matters. You can survive if I fall, but you need her. Don’t tell them unless it is necessary.

She stood as her soul froze. She could feel the tears slip down her face, but it was on her human body, not the one in the realm. “You plan to sacrifice yourself for Adara. You have already given so much. Your life. Your pack. Your fertility. How can we take any more from you?”

Do not cry, little lass. No sacrifice was asked for. All were given with pride. Do you know why I call Thorn my cub?

She shook her head. “Everyone thinks it’s cute and kinda funny, but no, not really.”

He was young when he sacrificed himself to save Legion. When he was stuffed into my body, I saw his life. His sacrifices and his need to help both the dragon and druid species. My pack was strong, and I had already groomed another young wolf to replace me. I was given a gift. A new pack. One that flies. I was also given a second chance. A purpose beyond any wolf before me. In truth, I am no longer a simple wolf. I have been infused by the power of the dragons and the druids... and now the temple.

“You sound like you are not sure what you are anymore.”

I am powerful and loyal. When my time comes to pass, you will tell them, especially Thorn, that it was my choice. That my sacrifice is for my new pack. My dragon and druid family.

“I won’t let that happen. We need you. You don’t understand what you mean to us,” she snapped and regretted the outburst.

Ren’s eyes were sad. I do. You, of all people, understand the sacrifices one is willing to make to save their family.

“How do I save you?”

You can’t. That is not your destiny, but trust your mate. He will not survive if you don’t.

“I will do better. I promise. Just hold on as long as you can.” Her chest squeezed and she could hear Kell calling her.

You have done all you can do, little lass. Do not cry over the events you cannot control. I wish you love and happiness, seeker.

The realm dissolved as her eyes snapped open and the cave walls surrounded her. “NO!”

Kell’s arms wrapped around her as he pulled her against his warmth. “Alana, what happened?”

A tear slipped down her cheek. “The temple is dying.”

CHAPTER18

Alana took a moment to process her surroundings. They were still in the dragon caves, deep within the mountain. A tear dried on her cheek as Kell cradled her in his arms. He looked like he had aged several years, yet she was sure she had only been out of touch for a few minutes. “Sorry, that wasn’t what I expected.”

Kell released a breath he had been holding. “What happened? Your body went limp, and I couldn’t connect with your mind.”

“I entered the temple. When I called for her, she was able to tap into the power source Magnus left here to power the caves. She is utilizing it now, so the magic in these caves will be expended soon.”

“This cave was our past. The one in Colorado is our future. Adara is welcome to take what she needs.”

“She figured as much. She said the caves will be dark by the time we leave.”

Kell allowed her feet to touch the ground, but he kept his arm firmly around her. “You were crying. I have the feeling that is rare for you.”

She nibbled her lip. “It is. Adara was vibrant when I met her at the camp. She looked... hollow and weak. She is in worse shape than I thought. She will not be able to reach out to us until we bring her my onyx circle and the dragon’s claw.”

Kell searched her face. “Is that all?”

She didn’t want to lie to him. “For now.”

His hand tightened on her waist. “Tell me what burdens you.”

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