Chapter 8

He edged to one side to see around the taller man. They were looking into a cave or a mine adit, a narrow, horizontal tunnel diving back into the cliff. The dim trace went straight into the dark maw. A draft of cool air came out, air holding a faint scent of moisture and decay. The subtle taint of foulness seemed more repulsive than a rotting carcass, more dangerous than a pointed gun.

Manuel’s gut clenched in anticipation. “We have to go in there, don’t we?”

Alex shrugged one shoulder. “We should. Would you happen to have a flashlight in your gear? I don’t relish the idea of going in there blind.”

Manuel rummaged in the belt pack and came out with a small, powerful light. He handed it over. “Unless you want me to go first…”

“Up to you. I can, will. I still feel the pull.”