Nodding calmly, Eva looked directly into her mothers' face which conveyed complete peace of mind. Obviously, she didn't want to explain further, knowing that whatever was going on would hurt even more to Eva. She stood watching closely as Sam left for the nearest exit with his cohort trailing right behind. As for her mother, she took her place next to Eva, helping her to stand. Smoothing out the wrinkles in her dress, her mom assured Eva it wasn't necessary to worry about appearances tonight because they had plenty of time to fix it afterward.
Taking a deep breath, Eva turned her attention back towards the others in hopes of figuring out exactly what was going on and how much longer until it was over with. However, she really wished she hadn't bothered questioning her mom concerning magic. Right now, the only thing occupying her mind was getting out alive and at least make it back home again before anything happened. It appeared that they still had
Moments later, a few unmarked police cars sped past, which made Eva shiver with fear wondering why they were here. Were they chasing them? Was that the purpose of the attack tonight? Or maybe, the authorities simply didn't want them going after the criminals themselves. Whatever, the case, she hoped that somehow they'd get away with no incident. At that moment she recalled something her uncle said, "Look the last thing you need is to have you or your parents apprehended. We don't want trouble." But will anyone listen? Will we ever truly be safe from people like them again?!As the night progressed, the moon began to rise, shining brighter and larger than usual. The stars glittered brightly above them casting colorful splashes of light across the sky. Soon, a cool breeze blew gently across the landscape causing leaves to rustle, adding its own unique melody to the mix. Eva slowed her speed, eager to reach the destination before dawn arrived. So intent on reaching the shoreline
Stealthily peeking underneath a leaf, she couldn't help but notice a pair of familiar bright eyes staring back at her. So sweet, yet somehow stern…eyes so warm and inviting. However, just as quick as the vision appeared, it vanished into thin air. No sooner had she witnessed her reflection in those lovely orbs, the image disappeared from view. Concerned, Eva questioned, "Who are you and where did you go?" When she didn't answer, she returned her focus to her immediate environment making certain she wasn't in imminent danger.Closing her fist tightly around her beloved dagger, she raised her head trying to gain more information regarding the sound of movement within the bushes. Suddenly, he reappeared standing tall on top of the hillside directly overhead staring down at her with concern etched across his rugged features. Like a spirit rising from the dead, she gasped recognizing him as she gazed into his heavenly expression. Not only had she seen him before but now
"Just keep moving straight ahead," she replied pointing northward where he could see the faint outline of a mountain range clearly visible through the trees.After climbing up a steep incline, they reached a clearing surrounded by tall pine trees where the ground was littered with fallen branches from previous storms allowing them to make camp for the evening. Before setting up their makeshift tent, Taylor took a deep breath inhaling the cool air filling his lungs while listening intently for any signs of danger. While he waited for her to join him, he noticed a number of deer roaming freely nearby grazing on the lush green grass growing everywhere including patches of wildflowers scattered here and there. Thankfully, none of them seemed to notice his presence or pay him any attention. However, he couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched so he kept scanning the area constantly keeping one eye trained on every direction possible. This particular stretch of l
Carson awoke abruptly gasping for breath as though he were drowning in the middle of the ocean. His entire body ached as he lay motionless on the cold concrete floor while struggling to regain control of his senses. Moments earlier, he'd been dreaming about the woman he'd met in Mexico City before waking up suddenly and finding himself trapped inside a black void filled with endless possibilities. Suddenly, he remembered the message written on the piece of paper tucked into his pocket along with the photograph he'd seen sitting atop a table at the Mexican restaurant. It was a picture of a young girl standing in front of an old church. Strangely enough, she reminded him of Eva who appeared to be younger than the girl in the photo although he knew they shared the same features. As he struggled to remember why he was there, he felt like he was falling backwards into oblivion…"How long have I been unconscious?" he wondered as he slowly regained awareness."Three hours,
"Drive northbound on the freeway for approximately three miles," she whispered softly. "Then take the first exit onto E Street heading northwest toward downtown Sacramento. Once you arrive, follow the signs directing you to the bus station. You can buy tickets online beforehand if you prefer.""Okay," he answered anxiously. "Thanks for taking care of things for me. I really appreciate it.""Don't mention it," she replied lightly. "Now, relax and enjoy the ride because we still have a long ways to go."***A short distance away, Eva drove past an abandoned shopping mall on the outskirts of town. Her destination was situated directly adjacent to the property where the previous tenant had vacated many years ago. With the exception of a few passersby, no one seemed to notice her arrival. Staying close to the curb, she parked the car in front of a large warehouse resembling a giant barn built with red brick walls covered in moss. There were numerous doors scatte
Lifting her right hand, she pointed towards the ceiling indicating she wanted to show him something. Turning off the lights, she moved forward holding a flashlight in her left hand illuminating a portion of the room. When the light hit a particular spot on the wall, he could clearly see a faint image outlined in black paint depicting a man's face with eyes staring blankly at nothing in particular. The figure wore a hooded cloak covering its entire body leaving only the head visible. He couldn't identify the person depicted in the painting although he sensed it might be connected to his own personal situation."Do you recognize this?" she asked pointing to the dark silhouette."No," he answered honestly. "Should I?""I think so," she replied. "Look closely at the mouth area."When he focused his attention on the portrait, he realized it was actually a detailed depiction of what appeared to be a human skull. A smile formed on his lips realizing it rep
With harmony prevailing, the expedition members turned their attention to healing the wounds inflicted upon their world. They channeled their collective strength and knowledge into rebuilding the shattered cities, mending broken relationships, and restoring nature's balance.The once-divided nations, recognizing the futility of conflict, sought diplomatic solutions to long-standing disputes. Leaders from across the globe came together, forming alliances and promoting open dialogue. They shared their stories of unity and the triumph over Eclipse, inspiring others to let go of prejudice and embrace cooperation.In schools and communities, the tales of the expedition became legendary. Children grew up hearing about the courageous individuals who had defied darkness and ushered in an era of unity. They learned from history and were taught the values of empathy, compassion, and understanding. Generations to come would carry the torch of unity, ensuring that the mistak
As Eva's lectures continued, her sadness gradually transformed into a profound sense of fulfillment. The students hung onto her every word, their eyes shining with determination and hope. They were inspired by her unwavering spirit, and Eva, in turn, drew strength from their eagerness to learn and grow.Beyond the academy walls, Eva's influence expanded. Her lectures were shared through digital platforms, reaching a wider audience and touching the hearts of countless individuals who yearned for unity in their own lives. Eva's story became a rallying cry for people from all walks of life, inspiring them to embrace diversity, let go of prejudices, and work together for a better future.Witnessing the transformative impact of Eva's words, Jo couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. They saw the seeds of unity taking root within the hearts of the students, flourishing into a force that would shape the world for generations to come.Eva and Jo, united i