Page 21

CHAPTER 20

I LAY NEXT TO the mango tree, somewhat aware that I was sleeping. Even so, my mind whirred with a vision of tall grass poking at my legs in a meadow with a cabin. Sunny skies stretched overhead, but I glanced into the jungles to my right. A sensation rushed into my mind like string connected me to another living being. The invisible cord throbbed. I followed the unseen string from the open meadow and into the deep shadows between the trees. A greedy urge pumped through my veins, but it wasn’t my own feeling.

“We want you,” a voice hissed, and a dark shadow shifted between the trees.

I whirled around, smacking into someone’s chest.

My body jolted. I gasped for air and awakened to a dull blue sky overhead with branches reaching into my line of sight. My heartbeat galloped.

It was only a dream, Beatriz. But why do night visions have to feel so real?

A constant rush of water louder than the sea flowed somewhere nearby, calming my nerves. I lifted my head. Zichri, Blas, and Milo’s backs faced me while they perched on the cliff edge several paces ahead. Following the curve of a narrow stretch of land between the pool of river water and the cliff’s edge, I spotted Laude and Jaime sitting and eating mangoes nearer the waterfall.

Had I slept in that long? I flinched, imagining their judgment. No wonder she hasn’t a gift. She’s quite the sluggard. Tears stung my eyes, but I blinked them back.

We’d enter Valle de los Fantasmas today. What would we search for? The image of the meadow from my dream entered my mind’s eye. I pushed myself into a sitting position. Every muscle ached from so much climbing and swimming from the day before.

I gripped the collar of my tunic. How much time did we have? I peeked beneath the rough linen, catching the swirl of faint lines. Not metallic ones. A sigh of relief poured out my mouth. We still had time to find my whyzer.

“Cypress!” Zichri called. He swiped a mango from the ground and approached me. “We’ll head out when you’re ready.”

“Let’s go now.” I got to my feet and smoothed off my rumpled shirt and pants.

“It’s quite the swim, and we had a long day yesterday.” He shook the mango and lifted a questioning brow as if to ask if I wanted to eat.

“We need to get into the valley. Time is running short and—” I snapped my mouth shut. How did I let my words get away from me? No one else needed to know about my oath.

He gestured with a circular hand motion for me to continue. “And?”

“I’ll eat first,” I said, resigned.

Zichri tossed the mango, and I fumbled to catch it. He stood beside me while I dug my fingernails into the fruit, peeling the skin. I devoured my breakfast, juices dripping along my chin. It was so awkward, but these weren’t normal circumstances. I mopped my face with my shirt sleeve. So undignified. He laughed, but I was in no mood for any talking or amusement. The skin along my biceps squeezed, and I winced.

Was it the dream that hurried me forward? Or the constant reminder of my impending death should I fail to complete my oath?

I threw the mango pit over my shoulder. “Now, can we go?”

Zichri scanned my face, and whatever he saw in it must have told him that I could not be swayed to idle any longer. He whistled to his companions, calling them nearer. Everyone ambled toward us and listened to Zichri lay out a plan of who’d be swimming near whom and what we’d do upon entering the valley. His melodic accent broke through in certain phrases, and he projected an air of confidence. I turned my gaze down to our boots, trying to focus on our current task.

“Lead the way,” Zichri said in a gentle tone.

Dipping my boot in the turquoise water, I walked deeper. I would let the promise of more time with Zichri sustain me as I swam. He waded next to me, and I plunged ahead, thankful for all the swimming I did back home. A splash sounded beside me, Zichri. On my next stroke, Blas rushed to join us. I slowed my pace, catching a glimpse of Milo, Jaime, and Laude stepping into the water together.

The falls hummed in my ears, strangely calming despite doubt licking at my heels. I arced an arm over my head, breathed, and switched arms. My legs kicked in perfect rhythm.

A large bird glided over our heads and dove to the water, skimming the surface. It zipped away, a flopping fish in its talons. Will we be hunted like that fish?

My aching arm muscles tightened. Splashes sounded on each side of me. How much more to go?

The rocky shore grew closer, and I continued forward until smooth stones grazed my fingers. My limbs begged for a break. A few more strokes. Sucking in a deep breath, I lunged onto the shore, unconcerned about dirt or anything else.

Zichri followed behind me and staggered to his feet, looking into the jungles all about us. He paced, hands on hips, and panted.

Blas collapsed once he made it out of the water, breathing hard, and sat up. “Something’s not right.” He pointed a thin finger toward the others.

I lifted my head, propping it onto my elbows. Two brown-haired heads peeked above the water offshore. I stood to get a better view, but it was the same. My heart dropped. “Laude!”

Milo swam back a few strokes, and Jaime disappeared under the water’s surface. My world spun. What could I possibly say to Mamá if they couldn’t save Laude?

What am I thinking? She isn’t dead yet.

I ran into the water, but a strong hand grabbed my shoulder.

“They have her,” Zichri said. “Milo and Jaime will get her to shore as fast as they can.”

The two men flipped a lifeless-looking Laude on her back and hauled her in tow while they sidestroked. Each precious second tarried as I waited for them to make it to shore. I wiggled free of Zichri’s steel grip and plunged in until the water reached my waist.

Zichri barred my way again with an arm and scooped me close to his chest. “Wait until they pull her onto the shore. You’ll only hold them back.”

“Is she alive?” I called out to them. Jerking to get free of Zichri, I elbowed his side. “Let me go.”

Milo and Jaime dragged Laude to the rock-laden shore. She erupted in coughs. Jaime turned her onto her side and she retched water. Is that a good sign? I ran to her and wedged myself between Jaime and Milo. She wouldn’t like them seeing her in such a state. Still coughing and gasping for air, she propped herself onto an elbow.

“Let it all out.” I patted her back. Hot tears streamed to my jawbone. “Never scare me like that again.”

Her swollen eyes looked up at me, reflecting the murky waters rather than the usual skyblue. More tears gushed out of me like hot springs. I lifted her torso and wrapped my arms around her body, squeezing tight. She spewed again. Warm vomit soaked into my shoulder. I didn’t care—well, not much. Laude was alive.

“Good thing she got all that out,” Blas said.

I whipped my head, glaring.

He bit his nails, concern etched on his forehead. At least he looked worried. Though, any loose comments might have brought out a fresh batch of fury from me. He’d caused Laude enough grief with his insults.

“Miss, I thought I might die … I’m sorry. My arms gave up.” Laude still caught her breath. Curls clung to the side of her face. Her chest puffed out and shuddered as it fell.

“Don’t be sorry.” I should have known better. She never went for the long swims with Lux and me, and the thought poured guilt into my heart. She never went because I disinvited her years ago.

Blas paced, his boots crunching. “I’m guessing we will relax the rest of the day.” He hesitated for a second, looking down and adjusting his soaked tunic. “Gonzalo isn’t here, so I’m the new chef. I’ll start the fire.” He lumbered toward the small clearing in the shadowed forest behind us.

Sunlight painted the mountain peaks and cast dark silhouettes of the lush trees covering the valley side. On the opposite end of the river, grass and plants bunched together in a larger clearing. Next to it, trees bursting with zapotes and a plume of smoke smudged the lilac skies. My whyzer was the valley’s only known resident.

Zichri crossed in front of my view. “We’ll head out tomorrow. You both can relax near the fire while we fish and gather from the forest.”

“As you wish.” I reached for Laude’s hand to help her up, but Zichri scooped Laude into his arms. Her legs dangled, and her head lolled against his chest. Gratitude swept over me for his kindness.

Could she still die because of injuries within her body?

Looking over the river, I lifted my voice, hoping the Ancient One could hear more clearly in this valley. “Please, I beg for Laude’s life and for all the men too.”

A cool breeze touched my skin, like a small gesture to affirm my words had been heard. Maybe it was wishful thinking, but in that moment, I needed any sign of hope. The wind shifted, restoring the humid air.

I walked straight to Laude, who watched Blas fiddle with flint and steel. She could light a branch with the touch of a finger, but did the Himzos know? Probably not.

“No luck with the fire yet?” I placed a hand on my hip.

He hunched over a pile of leaves, striking his tools together. Not bothering to make eye contact, he said, “Yet? Don’t worry your prettylittle toes. Not even Gonzalo could get a fire kindled so fast.” The cocky undertone of his voice chafed my ears.

“I bet Laude could get a fire going before you light up those leaves.”

Laude’s swollen eyes flicked wide. “But Miss—”

“Laude.” I turned toward her and winked, trying to push my thoughts at her. Don’t mention your gift .

She sat back, mouth snapping closed.

“Blas, Laude’s victory will be all the better, especially since,” I tapped a finger to my cheek, watching Blas meet my gaze, “all ladies from Giddel are silly. Isn’t that what you said?” I raised an eyebrow in challenge.

“We only have one set of steel and flint.” Blas continued to strike the pieces together.

“I packed another set.” Jaime’s voice came from somewhere behind us. He carried an armful of colorful fruit and odd leaves. Then he plopped them next to me and shook off his pack.

“This is silly. She’s upset over comments between men around a campfire. She shouldn’t have taken it personally.” Blas grunted in frustration when a spark hit a leaf, but it did not catch fire.

Jaime handed Laude the metal set and added, “I’ll get you some dry leaves.”

Laude and I fixed our gazes on each other. I smashed my lips tight and ran an index finger across them to try and tell her to stay silent. She giggled weakly.

Milo and Zichri ambled toward us from down the shore, carrying several fish skewered on long branches.

I waved them over to quicken their steps. “Come see, come see who can light a fire first. Blas or Laude?”

“You can’t be serious.” Blas remained seated on the grass. “Are we going to make this into a show?”

Zichri, Milo, Jaime, and I stood between the two competitors. Poor Laude managed a swollen-faced smile when she lit up a leaf with her finger, pretending to use the tools. I bit on my lower lip while Jaime scooted the leaves under our firewood. None of the wood seemed to kindle, so Laude snuck a peek over at the others. All of their gazes fixed on Blas, and she reached with a glowing finger to a branch near her leaf.

Blas finally got a flame going when Laude’s wood ignited into a full campfire. I passed her a conspiratorial grin. She snatched her finger back, firelight illuminating a sly expression. Smoke wafted in the air before Blas could take credit for helping. He dropped his tiny leaf to the ground and stomped on his flame. His angular features pinched together in a way that added more delight to the victory.

Laude hugged her knees, and Jaime sat next to her, scratching his beard stubble. Flirtatious glances passed between them. It appeared more than firewood got kindled in the competition.

What would I have done if the worst had transpired? A well of emotion filled me with a strange new sensation that swarmed through my chest. I hadn’t realized how much she meant to me.

I settled between Laude and Milo and curled my legs to the side, positioning myself to give Laude some privacy. Then again, why shouldn’t I eavesdrop on them?

Wind howled through the leaves. For a moment, I almost thought I had heard my name in the rustling: Beatriz . I shivered despite my proximity to the fire, feeling the hairs on my body raise.

“Hey, beautiful!” Zichri cooked his skewered fish on the other side of Milo. “Come sit with me. Tonight, we’ll feast and get some rest.”

“I am sitting next to you.”

“No. Milo is sitting next to me.”

Milo partially rolled his eyes and migrated to the other side of the campfire. I scooted closer to Zichri and flipped my sore palm up. The sting stretched my skin into a tight red color.

“Let me see that.” Zichri cradled my hand. “Jaime, did you find anything to help with the swelling?”

Blas stood. “Jaime knows about all sorts of plants. Did you find any to season the fish?” There might have been a hint of envy to his voice, but I couldn’t say for sure.

Jaime blushed and pointed to the mix of leaves he had left next to me. “No. Those are for Cypress. Can you heat up some water to make a poultice?”

Blas snatched the leaves and grunted. “I didn’t need your stinky herbs anyway.”

Another warm gust of wind brought a louder howl. Turn back .

Had anyone else heard the eerie words? Zichri stilled, and Laude sank into Jaime’s embrace. But no one mentioned the strange voice.

The fire crackled, casting light over our small group as the sun’s glow disappeared.

“Let me sing you the best tune you’ve ever heard.” Blas stood closer to the fire.

Milo slapped Blas’s back. “It’s all right, brother. You don’t have to prove yourself now. I’ll take this one. I think we’ve had enough of your … exhibitions.”

Laude and I met gazes, and she curved her lips in conspicuous surprise. I snorted, nearly spitting the tea I just drank. My hand shot to my mouth. If only they would have known how Laude won so easily.

Laude dropped her chin to her chest while the others watched my outburst.

Zichri nudged my elbow and leaned closer. “What’s so funny?”

“It’s a secret.”

“Now we have secrets?”

“Look who’s talking, Mister Zichri of Himzo.” I pinned him down with a long, narrowed stare.

“I’m bound to secrecy. My king could hang me.”

I gulped, feeling the weight of his words. Papá executed treasonous soldiers, not that it happened often. A memory flashed through my mind of dangling feet. I sat with my family, overlooking the gallows on a perfect sunny day in the main square. No amount of sea breeze could blow away the stifling air or stop my lungs from becoming iron in my chest. Papá explained that this one man’s mischief stole many fathers from their families. Even with the explanation, it didn’t change the morose and sickening feeling of watching another person die.

“Laude has,” I glanced to be sure Blas wasn’t close enough to hear, “the gift of starting fires.”

Zichri guffawed.

“But don’t tell Blas. Promise?”

He lifted a hand in the air and another on his heart in the Himzo fashion. It took him a good while to subdue his laughter. “Promise. Though you shouldknow, Blas will practice using the flint and steel every spare moment he gets.”

I placed my hand on his. “Good.”

One by one, we set up our hammocks in nearby trees. Laude, Jaime, Zichri, and I were the last to part ways. I wished to stretch this small thread of time as long as possible, but Laude needed her rest.

Laude and I climbed into the hammock Gonzalo lent us. Not exactly like my bed back home or even the beds at the inn. She jabbed my stomach with her elbow, and I turned to my side, facing Laude’s profile. The netting wrapped tighter around us. Laude’s wild curls tickled my nose.

I had to ask. “Are you going to tell me what Jaime said to change your mood?”

Laude sighed in awe. “Miss, he apologized and assured me I impressed him with my ability to stand up for myself at the inn.”

“That’s all?”

“Of course not. Like I said before, he’s the most handsome of the bunch with the most tender heart. Even your Zichri does not match him anymore.”

“ My Zichri?”

“I assure you, he is your Zichri. Jaime even said that he’s never seen him give such special attention to any lady before.”

“Go to sleep.”

Long after her breath became soft and even, I lay awake, cheeks tight from a smile I couldn’t release. Laude’s words hit me with such a force that even the howling wind couldn’t steal the happy sensation of floating among the clouds until I, too, drifted to sleep.