Chapter 367

Dark magic seeped in from every direction, thick and corrosive, eating away at Maelda’s spirit realm. The radiance of the place dimmed as the shadows spread, tendrils curling like claws. Maelda’s shimmering form began to flicker and corrode.

Ron’s heart leapt into his throat. “What’s happening?”

Maelda no longer had time to explain. She moved closer, her hands trembling as she pressed the warm, pulsing heart into his palms. Prince Ron looked down and nearly recoiled when he felt the Dark Lord’s still beating heart on his palms. It was soft, somewhat squishy and wet.

“You have to take it, Ron,” Maelda said firmly. “The Dark Lord cannot rise. You have to protect it.”

His eyes widened in horror. So this was what she meant when she said he had to take her place in the beginning. He shook his head, pushing the heart back to her. “This…no. No I can't do this. How do you expect me to protect his heart? I don't even have any powers.”

“You can.” Maelda insisted.