105
THE BLUE FEATHER
the ground expansively, then indicated Bardala's trail led up the
mountain.
“This is crazy. Walk all day in one direction, and then turn
around and walk back into danger. I guess Bar and Tital really
must need our powers,” Jonathan told Viviana. “It must have
something to do with the Atoo tribe.”
“Yes, young warrior, you must be right. I know the Atoo sent
out scouts to Mah Col. They wait, and watch to see which way
the volcano sends its anger. I saw signs of them hiding when I
took our gold to quiet her anger. Now, we must all hurry. We
should see the others up ahead very soon. Keep your eyes open,
because it is very dangerous around here,” Ki Mab told them,
while holding his son, Kuó.
“Father, I am very tired, and I cannot walk much farther,” Kuó
said.
“I will have one of my men carry you,” Ki Mab told his son.
“Our walk will soon be over.”
The group continued on through the decimated jungle. The
air grew fouler as they walked. After several more hours of
trekking, they arrived at the base of the volcano.
“There they are, do you see them? There they are! They are
climbing to the top of the volcano. We must hurry!” Ki Mab
yelled over the deep rumbling noise.
“I don’t see anyone!” Viviana said, looking up through the
heavy smoke.
“I don’t see anyone either!” Jonathan exclaimed along with
his sister.
“Do you see the outsiders?” Ki Mab turned and asked his two
men.