Rachael put her hand on Rio’s shoulder when she heard him swear softly under his breath. “He’s strong, Rio.”

“No man wants to lose his leg.”

Her fingers went to the nape of his neck in a slow massage. “No they don’t. Let’s hope that’s not what happens.” She rubbed her face along Rio’s arm, much like a cat giving affection. “Kim, Rio told me a man named Joshua was hurt last night too. Have you heard anything about him?”

“He is going to be down for a long while, but he will recover.”

“Why did your father send you to us?” Rio asked abruptly.

“There’s a large party moving through the forest, Rio.” Kim’s face was open and friendly, but there was a hint of shadow in his eyes. “A man came to our village seeking my father’s counsel. He said he needed help, that he does medical research and was looking for a variety of plants for his work. He knew all of the old traditions. He was very respectful and he gifted my father with a spear.”

Rio’s head went up. Rachael could see his frown. “He gave your father a spear?”

“It was old, very old. And it was one of ours. He claimed that the spear was handed down two generations. That it was given to honor his grandfather for saving the life of a child, and that if it was returned, a debt of honor would be repaid.”

“This man is a doctor?”

Kim shook his head. “I don’t think so. I think he is not telling the truth. He asked for a guide and father sent Tama with him and then sent me to find you. My father believes this man is looking for Miss Rachael.”

“Why would he think that?” Rachael asked. “Did he ask about me?”

“My father had a vision. He saw this man standing beside you with a gun in his hand. He sent me to warn Rio.” Kim looked at Rachael. “I see disbelief in your eyes, Miss Rachael. Don’t discount my father’s visions because you have not experienced such a thing. He has kept our people from harm over many years.”

“He’s a powerful medicine man,” Rio added. “I won’t allow Rachael to take chances, Kim. Thank you for warning us. You’ve come a long way. Come in and have something to drink. I can fix us a meal.”

Kim stepped into the house and glanced across the room toward the rumbled bed. Rachael found herself blushing. Rio laced his fingers through hers and drew her hand to his mouth, teeth nibbling gently before pressing a kiss against her knuckles. “Does this doctor have a large party with him?”