Glow

Auren’s sense of triumph is short-lived. When she and Slade return to the Grotto, they learn that Queen Kaila’s brother Manu will arrive in Fourth Kingdom shortly to demand that Auren stand trial. The entire group in Drollard mobilizes for a return to Fourth Kingdom.

Before they go, Slade and Auren visit Elore one last time. Then, they go to the rift in space, where Slade explains that the mortals in Drollard depend on him for their very lives: “The rip is their last connection to Annwyn. If they stray too far from it, they will die instantly” (445-46). They can never leave Drollard at all.

Slade explains that he must replenish the rip to keep it open by feeding it his fae magic every few months. This is different from his rot power. Auren is impressed by his magical prowess. Auren watches as Slade fires every ounce of magic he possesses into the rip, exhausting himself in the process. When he finishes, Auren is more determined than ever to control her own gold power. She tells Slade that she is ready to accompany him to Fourth Kingdom.