The press of bodies crowding the park across from the White House was overwhelming. Perfume, sweat, and the scent of freshly painted signs mingled with a steady murmur of excited voices in the air. I started breathing more shallowly; sweat beading at my temple. Did I mention I was a tad bit claustrophobic? I avoided Waikiki for the same reason; I hate crowds. We had all split up to try and search the area for the terrorists. Brahma and Horus had gone to search the surrounding buildings for snipers—Horus in falcon form so he could peer into windows as he flew by—but I had a feeling these guys were going to get up close and personal. I searched the crowds anxiously. My hands kept clenching; like a gunman anticipating the draw. I had a protection spell ready, all I had to do was release it