50: The Old Scrolls

Orion rushed towards where Jade lay with Kalista close behind him.

"Jade!" he called out and dropped to his knees instantly. Placing one hand on Jade's neck, he went still, checking to see if he would feel a pulse. There was, but very faint.

Jade's temperature was boiling hot and perspiration dotted his head, plastering his hair against his skin. His brows were knitted with discomfort and his breathing came out laboured.

Kalista was sobbing quietly beside him, Jade's hand clasped lightly in hers. She began to regret asking him to mark her.

"This is all my fault," she whimpered. "I... I never should have asked him to place his mark on me..."

"Don't blame yourself Kalista,"Orion consoled her. "Jade wouldn't want you to do that. The most important thing now is finding a way to bring out the power of the gem from him."

Kalista nodded and moved back as Orion lifted Jade onto his shoulders. She followed closely behind as Orion made his way out of the forest, all the while praying to the