Chapter Thirty-Seven

Shu was both pleased and relieved that the statue had been discovered, along with one of the amulets. But he shook his head when Marie offered it.

"No, I shall take the statue but keep the amulet, it is important but your safety is paramount. If need be, it can be used as a bargaining chip." He looked sorrowful, brushing a ringlet of her hair that whispered over her cheek. "You saw how it worked before. I will keep my hopes that it will not be necessary, but it is there."

"Thank you," Marie nodded solemnly, slipping the piece into the folds of her cardigan. "I hope not too, but I'm fast learning that hoping doesn't give you anything."

She swallowed, wanting to ask about Isaac but feared any answer. She wanted to ask about what the Gods were planning, but the same applied, fear tied a tourniquet about her vocal cords.