THIRD PERSON POV

Ryker, Xavier, and a few others stayed not too far from shore. They stayed hidden in plain sight between jagged rocks and high brush, waiting.

The sea was calm, save for the occasional sound of waves that danced with the waters and the low murmur of water lapping against the stones.

Ryker crouched low, his eyes scanning the opposite shore. Beside him, Xavier knelt in silence, his jaw tight, and his gaze fixed on the horizon.

Xavier looked worried. His muscles were taut ...