9 Dark Magic

CHAPTER 9

Dark Magic "There is definitely dark magic at work here!" Lucas cried. "We'll need the help of the wizards!" Then the prince called for a scribe to send a message to the king. "Wait!" Petros shouted out as he beckoned wildly. "Follow me! It's important!"

As Lucas and Clara went to him, the crowd started booing and blaming Petros, saying things like "Evil boy, this is all your fault" and "You've infected Trellis with something wicked." When they were finally alone, Petros confessed, "I need your help! This whole thing is my fault!"

His body shook as if he had been out in the cold too long. Lucas extended a comforting hand. "How could this possibly be your fault?" he said gently. Clara stepped closer too. "This is sorcery, Petros. It has nothing to do with you."

But Petros backed away. "You are wrong! This has everything to do with me." "What are you talking about?" Lucas asked. Petros began to cry, and at the same time it began to rain. "I am the sorcerer!" he declared. And the moment he said it, lightning flashed and thunder boomed.

A wave of fear washed over Lucas as the rain fell down in sheets. He thought of the shadow. He thought of the wooden knights. He thought of the kids on the playground. Then he thought of how kind Petros had been to Clara and him. "Do not worry," Lucas said as evenly as he could. "We can help." Clara followed Lucas's lead. "Can you tell us more?" Suddenly the rain stopped. Petros took a deep breath, then explained. "I was born with magical powers. But I