CHAPTER 20The swamp grew denser and encroached more on the narrow path they followed, leaving barely enough room for two people to walk side by side. Occasionally an errant branch or vine had to be pushed out of the way to continue. Overhead, only occasional glimpses of sky could be seen through the canopy of green with violet highlights. The exotic hues and lavender fragrances reminded Mara that she traveled in a foreign place and that they weren’t hiking for recreation. Occasionally she heard the flutter of birds or the skitter of small animals, and she would tense, wondering if they were being followed.
Ping walked next to her while Sam and Diana trailed behind several feet, far enough that separate conversations were possible.
“Do you think the Coven is following us?” Mara asked.
“G
