Part 2: Chapters 12-13 Summary

In chapter twelve, Teka brings Aerin a message from Tor asking that she come to see the men leave for the west. Aerin finally relents and is waiting in the courtyard the following morning. As Aerin holds her father's horse for him, a tradition of debatable luck, a messenger comes from a distant town and tells the king that the mystic Black Dragon, Maur, has awaken and is terrorizing his village. The king acknowledges this news with a deep sadness and leads his troops out the city gates. Aerin consoles the messenger and promises to return to his village with him to help evacuate his people. As they approach the village, Aerin can see a large ash cloud that directs her to Maur's location.

Aerin camps for the night and prepares for battle early the next morning, donning her...