Chapter 17: Secrets and Plans

John, Marie, and William were all exhausted after their terrifying escape, their bodies hurting and their brains racing as they gathered beneath the shadow of a collapsing archway. Ahead of them, the old city stood still as it faced the rising sun. John's hoarse voice stated, "We did it." Even though he was physically tired, a little grin was playing on his lips. "We got out of there." Head buried in his shoulder, Marie nodded. She shivered at the thought of the collapsing room, the persistent beast, and the almost-death experience. Amid the residual terror, however, she felt a glimmer of warmth as she curled into John's arms. William cleared his throat abruptly, glancing between them uneasily. With a worried tone, he questioned, "What now?" John let go of Marie and straightened his chair, his face becoming stern. He said, "We need a plan," in a forceful voice. "The Black Ravens still have the replica stone, and they're likely to come searching for us." "We have to leave,"