Gabriel and his friends were waiting on their possible allies' reaction as the secret stronghold hummed with expectation. Amid the ancient antiques of the stronghold, they gathered in the center chamber, where the heart of the Shadow Beast rested on a pedestal, its dark force trapped by Lydia's power.
Ava paced, her words tinged with frustration. "We have to wait how long now? They promised to give our plea some thought."
Gabriel squinted at the communication device, its surface quiet following their previous exchange. "They will answer when they are prepared. Simply said, patience is required."
Leaning against one wall, Ethan looked straight at the door. "I don't believe in them. What if this is all a set-up?
Lydia's hands were still slightly magically glowing as she shook her head. E
