“Go ahead and laugh,” Kerrick said. “We’ll see who’s laughing when you all need to hide and I’m suddenly a rare plant, unable to be found.”

“Empty threat, weed boy,” Quain said.

“Oh, I think you know me better than that. I hope you look good in white, Quain. I’ve heard the Ozero priests make all their initiates wear white.”

“Really? I heard they don’t let them wear any clothes for the first two years,” Loren added.

“Wouldn’t they get cold?” Quain asked, sounding worried.

More laughter, but this time Kerrick joined in. Quain’s face turned red.

“Don’t listen to them,” I said. “Ever. You can trust me or Flea.”

“I’ve heard they tattooed the creator’s name on your...er...man part,” Flea said.

Loren high-fived the young man.

“Don’t encourage him.” I swatted Loren’s shoulder. But we all knew it was too late. Flea had been monkeyfied.

We resumed our trek. I tried not to count all the horse opportunities passing us by. Stopping for a quick meal, we pressed on until the sun dipped low.

Kerrick reappeared. He pointed to a narrow trail. “Keep on this path. It’ll lead you to a clump of Lilys, which will make an excellent camp for tonight. I’m going to do a little exploring. I’ll meet you there.” He met my gaze. The promise to return shone in his eyes.

Even though I’d rather go with him, I stayed with the others as we followed his directions. The scent of vanilla filled the air around the Lilys. While they waited, I walked up to the cluster of six. Five Peace Lilys and one Death Lily. It hissed, parted its petals and dropped two toxin sacks onto my open palms. Ryne might arrest us on sight, but he wouldn’t refuse more toxin. I thanked the plant, tucking the sacks into my pack.

The monkeys and Flea kept well away from the Death Lily. I ignored the Peace Lilys. After the debacle with Yuri, I never wanted to interact with another Peace Lily again.

Waiting for Kerrick was difficult, but I had to admit his choice of campsite was ideal. No one would dare approach a clump of Lilys.

Loren and Quain debated about setting a small fire. Tired of cold food, Quain hoped for at least a mug of hot tea.

“Just wait until Kerrick returns,” I said, setting up my bedroll. “There must be a reason he wanted to explore.” Like rounding us up a couple of horses, I hoped.

However when Kerrick arrived a few hours later, he was alone. And his serious demeanor said more than words.

“No fire. Pack your stuff, we’re leaving,” Kerrick ordered.

We assembled our gear.

“What aren’t you telling us?” I asked as we hustled through the forest.

“I’ll explain when we get there.”

Intrigued, I kept the rest of my questions to myself.