Chapter 75

They were close to the ruins by midday. Frank could feel the evil pouring into and over him, and he knew that he would be tested soon. He only hoped he was up to the challenge. He could feel the slimy sensation of Daitya, the itch and prickling of Azazil, and every other indication of evil he had felt up to that point plus some he had not encountered yet. He knew that the ruins were where Sayatan had gathered his minions, and he also knew he had to keep the others out. Somehow, he had to keep them out.

When they stopped for midmeal, he stood silently, staring east as the others ate just as silently. Then he spoke quietly. "You will all stay here. I will enter the ruins alone."

"Not a chance, Ga'briyel," Dinton said instantly. "We are coming with you."

"No you are not, Captain. None of you will follow me."

"Ga'briyel," Tero said, "we cannot let you go in there alone. You need us."

The Anmah spun toward his friends. "No, I do not! If you go with me, you will die, Tero! Anyone who goes w