“Jamie’s still out there,” I blurted, staggering to my feet. “He . . . he needs help.”

“And what have you discovered?” Harrison asked, ignoring my plea.

They stood and waited, watching me. An image of the Fury that Bobbie had killed filled my mind, and I shuddered. But I couldn’t tell them about Bobbie. She hadn’t made another appearance during my return, and I wondered if she’d left me altogether.

“They’re more terrifying than we could have imagined,” I rasped.

Harrison motioned to Morton. “Bring her. We shouldn’t be outside the gates in the dark.”

“Jamie’s still out there,” I objected. “We have to save him!”

“It was his choice to leave,” Harrison said. “And his choice not to return.” And then, as an afterthought, “You’re saying he’s alive?”

“He’s wounded. He’ll be dead if we don’t get to him soon. Please, I’m begging you. You have to help him!”

“Calm down, Grace.” Rose stepped forward. “You know very well that there’s nothing we can do for him outside of Haven Valley.”

“He won’t make it without help!”

Her eyes shifted to the dark forest over my shoulder. “How was he wounded?”

“The Fury,” I said. “He was attacked.”

Her lips flattened. Not a cruel expression, just one that said I told you so. And so she had.

“I understand why this is upsetting,” she said, “but let’s not forget why he finds himself in this situation. The prophecy gave him ample warning.”

“He’ll die!” I shouted, forgetting myself.

“And now you ask us to risk our lives to the same Fury who took his?” she demanded. “Jamie gave up his life the moment he crossed the perimeter. It’s a wonder you aren’t dead as well.”

“He’s not dead!”

“Watch your tone, young lady.” Her voice was soft, even apologetic. “Just be thankful you made it. There’s grace on you, my dear. The next time you might not be so fortunate.” She glanced at Ralph. “Bring her to my house. I need to know why Sylous saved her.”

I wanted to object again, but I knew she was right. I would have to find another way, though the prospect of going back out tonight on my own was terrifying.

Morton and his father reached either side of me quickly, their strong hands gripping both arms. My legs wobbled as they hurried me forward.

We were already inside the gate when a soft cry reached us from the forest. “Help!”

As one, we stopped.

The cry came again, distant but unmistakable. “Help!”

Jamie?

Pushed by adrenaline, I spun around and tore free from both guardians. “Jamie!”

“Stop her!” Harrison snapped.

Morton reached me before I’d taken three steps and jerked me back.

“Help me!”

“Jamie!”