Axiom Theory: Book Four of the Shadow Series Read Online Free

wrong, boy?” repeated Cliff, this time with a little more intensity. “What if, Test? Just ask yourself that question. Instead of being so focused on the possibility of the worst, why not have faith that everythin’ that happened was for the better? What if Nicole is actually in a better place?” The old man paused for a moment, attempting to reign in his own emotions. With his hands still gripping Test’s shoulders, the old man shook Test as he asked a final question. “What if she’s happy now?”
    Overwhelmed with thought, Test focused for a moment on Cliff’s theory. Though he still wasn’t convinced, he admitted to himself that everything suddenly did appear less bleak. With tear streaked cheeks and a crooked grin, he nodded to his friend.

CHAPTER 4
     
    The de scent down the side of the mountain was Test’s favorite part of his early morning treks. Always fearful of being discovered, by the average man or otherwise, he was ever mindful of how much power he released. This meant limiting his time for flight. Though he knew Isaac was gone, he’d learned that there were more Reapers and Shadows in the world than he had ever considered, and he knew that the odds were good that he hadn’t met them all yet.
    With a quick burst that sent him upward and outward, he allowed himself to glide over the tops of the trees. The wind on his face carried the fresh scent of the pines and the warm morning sun made each needle glisten as he passed. To him, there were a lot of disadvantages to being a Shadow, but flight was the one thing that he was grateful for above nearly all else.
    At the base of the mountain was the cabin that Prim had so graciously purchased for them. While Prim had provided the money needed, Test, Cliff, and Alyssa were allowed to choose the location. They had chosen this spot on Black Mountain for its seclusion as well as its beautiful surroundings. While it was not devoid of visitors, the remote location kept any sign of civilization to a minimum.
    Prim had purchased the home and property for them with money that he and Jenz had accumulated over the many years of their existence. The home was microscopic by anyone’s standards, barely six-hundred square feet, and was painted an off white color.  Energy was provided by several small wind generators that powered the pump for the well and the small window unit air conditioner. It was all that provided Test with any comfort from the heat. Due to the home not having much insulation, it was difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature. Though neither Alyssa nor Cliff had to worry about physical comfort, Test took it all in stride. Besides, it always gave a good excuse to take a dip in the cool stream that flowed a short distance from their home.
    Thad , Cliff’s grandson, sent them money once a month so that Test was able to purchase groceries and such. Test was glad that Cliff had found Thad. It seemed to bring his friend a happiness that he’d not seen him have before. That reason aside, he was grateful to Thad for his financial support. He knew it couldn’t be easy for someone making a teacher’s wage to spare anything.
    As Test landed in the clearing in front of their home, Cliff appeared by his side.
    “I win, youngin’,” said the old man with a wink and a grin.
    Patting Cliff’s back, Test replied while trying to mimic his friend’s trade mark wink. “I wasn’t racing, my friend.”
    The two of them walked toward the house, enjoying the last bit of the morning sun before it became much too hot. As they stepped to the front door, Alyssa’s body glided through the wood.
    “Good morning!” she said spryly. “What have you boys been up to?”
    Test couldn’t help but smile. “You can open the door, you know?”
    H er form to becoming completely solid, she bounced on her toes and then kissed Test on the cheek. “Yah, but why not take advantage of the things that being dead allows?” Though she knew comments like that bothered Test,