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“Drake will try to kill you,” Diana said urgently “You

know it’s true”

Caine heard her But her voice was so tiny, her warning so insignificant co pressure inside his chest

The gaiaphage’s hunger was his hunger now Feeding it would be feeding himself

Not true, Caine told himself

A lie

“Do this, and you will die, Caine,” Diana pleaded “Do it, and I’ll die

“Stop, Caine

“Don’t do it”

Caine tried to answer, but his mouth was dry and clenched

Step by step Up the trail To it To him

Jack was up there And Drake Drake talking to Jack There was a dead coyote lying in the path, headless

And Dekka, maybe alive, maybe not Not his concern Her probleainst Caine

Not his problem

He reached the top of the trail There was the mine shaft entrance