Page 45 of Defying the Relic Hunter

“True.” Ethan sheathed his sword.

I glanced out the front window and did a doubletake. Ivan was hightailing it down the street. “He’s getting away.”

Poof! Ethan vanished. Two seconds later, he appeared in front of Ivan and dropped the little weasel with a left hook.

Ivan’s men climbed in the tank. It backfired loudly and rolled down the street. That was a blinding flash of red and the tank disintegrated into ash.

Xenia whistled. “You called in a tactical strike?”

“They attacked our family.” Quinn picked Luigi up by the neck and teleported.

“Quinn considers me family?” Color me surprised.

Xenia hugged me. “Of course, he does. You’re one of us now.”

Joy welled up in me. I had always wanted a sister. “This is my first treasure hunt. Is it always this crazy?”

“It is. You can always plan on tomb raiders, pirate attacks and greedy relatives looking for easy credits.”

“Reminds me of the Dragos clan. A bunch of thieving conmen who would steal from their own mothers.”

“More fried ice cream?”

“Hell yeah. I think I’ll try the raspberry sauce this time,” I said.

“Quinn said the next clue is in Las Vegas.”

I grinned. “We are looking for ancient stucco warriors some old coot has in The Best Whore House in Vegas.”

“This is going to be fun,” Xenia chortled.

Chapter Thirteen

Central Command’s Las Vegas headquarters was located next to Nellis Air Force Base. The heavily fortified complex was buzzing with activity. The roar of modified fighter jets filled the air. My eyes widened when military police officers surrounded our shuttle. One look at the grim expressions on Ethan’s and Quinn’s faces and my stomach clenched. “Are they here to arrest me?”

A faint smile touched Ethan’s mouth. “No, they’re your security detail.”

“Why do I need a security detail?”

“Quinn and I have been called back to active duty for a few days and since the Bjarke have kidnapped you twice, you need protection. Until we return, you will follow Captain Miller’s instructions to the letter.”

I crossed my arms and glared at Ethan. “I’m not a Barbie. I’m quite capable of taking care of myself. Plus, I have Granny Annabel and Xenia for extra protection. Send them away.”

Ethan grimaced. “No can do. The Bjarke mercenaries need your talents to lead them to the treasure and they won’t stop until they capture you again. You will stay on the base until I return.”

“And where exactly are you going?”

“A squadron of modified Rodan marauders are showing on the long-range scanners. General Jones requested us to do the recon,” Ethan replied.

Xenia bristled. “The security detail isn’t necessary. I’m capable of keeping Kizzy safe.”

“The security detail is for you too,” Quinn growled.

“Me?” Xenia’s eyes began to glow. “Iama highly trained warrior with battle experience, and you will treat me as such.”

Quinn loomed over Xenia. “You’re also a much sought-after relic hunter. The Tomb Raiders want you as much as they do Kizzy. You will stay on the base until I return. Am I clear?”

Xenia saluted smartly. “Yes, sir.”

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