Chapter 23Cortez took a moment to assess the group, which now included every member—either standing around or watching through rolled down windows. She seemed moderately surprised to see so many young faces among them. But in the end, the only person the woman really cared about was Dakota, who she likely believed was the convoy’s true leader. “There’s a rumor that you’re immune to the effects of the stones,” she addressed him directly. “How does one come by such a useful talent?”
Her dad smiled. “Luck.”
“What other rumors have you heard?” Ken prodded.
“Some among you know the source of the new things that go bump in the night.” When Ken nodded, “And you might have some novel methods for protecting our borders.”
“We do,” she confirmed. “For a price.”
The woman waved an older man over.
