The air was cool and still on the island as Mason and the men climbed. It was almost silent except for the familiar brushing sound of the waves crashing on the distant shores. It was as if even the animals and insects knew something terrible was about to happen, and they had all retreated to their beds, giving up on their nightly songs.
Mason wouldn't have been able to hear them if they were right beside him, however. All he could hear now was the pounding of his own heart.
He, Nick, and Jamie climbed the three that would bring them up directly in front of the dragon's nest. Jamie had orders to stay at the edge until he could locate a good patch of high ground far enough from the fighting. For now, Mason was happy to have him close. They were three brothers together approaching what would be one of the most important moments of their lives.
