"The source of Black Moon Draw's magic is now gone. As for the battle-witch" - the Desert Knight declares, replacing his axe and grabbing a knife - "I shall ensure she never uses magic again!" He starts towards us, determined.
"M'lord, if I may," the Red Knight pushes me behind him. "Disarming a witch is my area of expertise. You can kill her a million times without my assistance, or once with it."
What have I done? I can't take my eyes off the medallion.
Magic molded this gem, but our love gave it power.
The Heart lasted a thousand years, until it met me. Jason was right - I really am a failure.
I don't care what happens to me. All I can think about is how I've let down the Shadow Knight in the worst possible way. Without the magic, what are the chances he can still save this place?
The Desert Knight halts. "Very well. She will be dead before we attack at dark fall," he replies. He sheathes his knife.
I'm vaguely aware of him walking away, trailed by his men and Westley.
Fighting the urge to break down and sob, I register the Red Knight's words a moment after he speaks them.
"We need to get you to safety, witch."
Blinking back tears, I say nothing.
He takes my arm and strides away quickly, his urgency restrained but clear in his tense features. Studying him, I can't help but think this is the worst day of my life. A short distance away, Disney Princess waits, eyes rimmed with red from fresh tears and her features even paler than Westley's. Even Ugly Duckling beside her appears horrified.
The Red Knight keeps up his breakneck pace through the encampment, until most of the brown cloaks have been replaced by white ones. Only when we reach the largest tent at the middle of the camp does he release me.
"What in the name of all the gods in the sky is going on?" he demands, turning on me.
Taken aback by the anger on his features, I retreat.
"'Tis my fault, brother," Disney Princess says mournfully. "Had I but known, I might have not betrayed him."
"Your bonding to the son of the Desert Knight is an issue I cannot handle right now," he says, red creeping up his neck. "How you allowed me to betroth you knowing you were already bonded . . ." He draws a calming breath. "It will not matter, if we cannot stop the kingdoms from devastation. Witch, what can you do?"
"Nothing." My throat is tight and hurting from the Desert Knight's abuse. "I have no magic. I can't help him or anyone else." I'm back to being useless again.