Luca's grey eyes burning, his jaw clenched. "We are not in a position with choices. We have to monitor it if this relates to the bond.
Tensed but deliberate, the troop got ready for the trip. Aria felt the link throbbing weakly, its energy steadying her as the light of the mark led their way.
Luca whispered gently, "Stay close," his hand brushing hers.
Her voice quivering but firm, she said, "I'm not going anywhere."
As they sank farther into the woodland, the pendant flashed once again, its light entwining with the brightness of the mark.
The air got colder, and the shadows extended around them as they moved towards the altar from the visions. Aria's wrist had a brilliant mark that illuminated the old markings carved into the stone.
Her voice quivering, she murmured gently, "This is it."
But the murmurs got louder as the pendant's light darkened; their words at last were clear: "The truth lies in sacrifice. Choose carefully as the link will either survive or break.
