Nicholas and Mattie both stared at the rock for a considerable amount of time, admiring its beauty and examining the symbol engraved into it. The spirals almost looked like they were moving, combined with the slithering curtain of blue glow circling around it. He held the weapon with a firm grip. It was an awkward position -- still lying on his stomach, gripping the rock in front of him.

"Maybe we should just get rid of it. It's a little creepy," Mattie said. Nicholas practically jumped out of his skin, hitting the rock against his chest over his heart and holding it there almost protectively.

"No!" he shouted, only realizing afterward that he had raised his voice. "No," he said, quieter, "We can't. It's obviously, uh, important."