Penelope's heart pounded.
She had felt it.
The door.
Ancient.
Heavy.
Made of stone.
And beyond it—
Earth.
Stable.
Unmoving.
Powerful.
She looked toward Erik.
"I found it."
For the first time that morning, satisfaction flashed through Erik's eyes.
"Good."
Then he pointed toward Ben.
"Now try to enter."
Ben's expression immediately changed. "Enter?"
"Enter." Erik repeated.
"I don't like the way that sounds." Ben said worriedly.
Unfortunately—
Nobody cared.
Not even Kai.
Who was enjoying Ben's suffering far too much.
"Good luck."
Ben pointed at him.
"You're a terrible friend."
Kai smiled.
"I know."
Ben looked betrayed.
"At least he's self-aware."
Erik ignored them all.
"Penelope."
She immediately straightened.
"Try again." He said in an commanding tone. He was not negotiating. He was ordering. Gone was the big brother and in was the Commander of the group.
Taking a deep breath, Penelope closed her eyes.
