140

MAXINE

"Why are they after Maxine's blade?" Raine asked. Their mother had told them a little about the blade and why it was special yesterday before bed. I, as well, did not understand why they were attracted to the blade.

"Get the blade. Come." Cinder told me. I nodded, undoing my apron and going to grab my leather bag. I took out the dagger.

"What about the rogues?" Raine asked.

"Zel?" Cinder called. "I'm going to need you to do it now."

"I…" she said, hesitation in her voice. Then she nodded, a determined look settling on her face. Zel took off her apron and walked to a spot in the living room. She sat on the center of the rug and crossed her legs.

She closed her eyes. A moment later, when she opened them, they were white. She drew a circle in the air, at the same time with both hands.

"Done. The protection spell is on. They can't come anywhere near this mountain or the decoy house." Zel said, bringing her hands together and clasping them.

Her eyes were still open and completely as