Celestite stones were set into the corner of every window and door frame of the house. Josef at least was taking no chances. The trip to the city had been enjoyable until Josef had ushered them home, complaining of a bad headache. Jared was concerned; the old monk had seemed distressed over the past hour, shuffling about, keeping busy checking the gems. He gave a deep sigh. Three months had passed without a single occurrence, yet now something licked at the sea air and made it bitter. A feeling of trepidation was creeping through his bones. A sharp pain settled behind both eyes. He needed an hour to himself, time to think and gather his senses. Elizabeth moved on the bed and he turned to look at her. It was too risky to leave her feeling as he did. Walking softly so as not to wake her, he checked her. The necklace hung below her top, resting against her heart. She was sleeping so soundly, surely he could leave her awhile. There came a light tapping on the door. Jared opened it. Josef looked at him.
