Chapter 9:
The group walked down the path toward the British bridge over the canal. The cold rain from the north helped squelch the fires on the island caused by the earlier riots. The soldiers of the occupying countries cleared the streets with help from the rain. It was late and the city dark—it all matched Helena’s mood. Many of the red lanterns had gone out. The lights that made the city feel festive were long gone, and now the rain gave the city a dismal pall for Helena.
Three women walking alone at night was not the best situation in a city on the verge of revolt. Helena took the Dragon’s tear from Phoebe and hid the glow under her clothing. She thought of no reason to bring attention to themselves by putting the glowing gem on display for the world to see.
After walking several h
