The first rays of morning peaked through the thick canopy, bathing Gabriel and his friends in a golden glow as they proceeded into the woodland. Now safely wrapped in linen, the artifact seemed to throb with an unearthly intensity, a continual reminder of the peril they were carrying.
Ava scowled over her shoulder, her voice low. "Do you suppose they are still following us?"
Gabriel looked about him, his face watchful. "Hard to say. Malachai is not a giver."
Ethan tightened the sword strap, resolve squinting in his eyes. Then we have to carry on. Too extended stays in one location are unaffordable."
Lydia clenched the artifact even more tightly, worry in her voice. We're going where? What assurances do we have of our safety?"
Gabriel looked straight out to sea, his jaw clenched. "Deep
