4
“Wait, Alma!” I shouted as I grabbed Caius’ hand and pulled him along with me.
We reached the edge of the encampment as Alma disappeared into the crowds beyond the tents. I slipped between two canvassed shelters while Caius was blocked from slipping through because of the tight squeeze.
“I’ll go around!” he shouted over the shouts and cheers.
I nodded and wiggled my way into the crowds that lined the thoroughfare. A long parade of robed monks walked in solemn procession through the parted crowds. Many held small flames in their upraised hand. Others came in groups of four and carried large bowl of oil lit aflame by their magic.
Something new and yet old caught my attention. There, standing across the procession, stood the man in black. His soft eyes stared directly into mine.
