CHAPTER SIXTY SIX - The Edges Of Our Understanding

"Clumsy girl!" Elder Rosewood spluttered, her face flushing with anger. "These robes are sacred!" The momentary distraction was all Gabriel needed. He appeared at Lucas's side as if from nowhere, his voice a urgent whisper: "Plans have changed. We're being watched." Lucas tensed. "Watched? By whom?" "Not sure yet. But something's off." Gabriel's eyes darted to the pendant in Lucas's hand. "Be careful with that. It might not be what it seems." Before Lucas could question him further, Gabriel melted back into the crowd, leaving Lucas with the pendant and a growing sense of unease. Alexander cleared his throat loudly. "Let us continue with the ceremony." Lucas turned back to Vanessa, studying her face with new awareness. Was that a flicker of anxiety behind her perfect smile? "The pendant," he said, holding it up for all to see. The gathering quieted once more. At Shadow Crest, Aria watched the scene unfold through Morgana's viewing pool, a circular basin filled with water that sh