Chapter 57

EZRA

The humidity was the first thing I noticed. There was also something sharp biting into my palm. I was on my hands and knees in the dirt. Both Avery and Mom were hovering over me, their voices a blur.

"Hasim!"

Tamner's voice broke through the fog and I glance up to see the old man walking as quickly as he could towards us through the village. I'd managed to bring us through right on the edge of the huts.

"John," I said, lifting my head up more and sitting back on my heels. "He's hurt," I told the old man.

Tamner turned, heading right over to where Hunter held John upright. Dad held a hand out and helped me to my feet. Suon and the Chief of the village appeared then, from the other side of the line of huts.

"Hasim," Suon said, raising a hand in greeting. "Many blessings to see Hasim."

"Thanks, it's awesome to see you, too," I said, brushing the dirt from my hands. My muscles ached. Tamner led Hunter and