The waterfall was loud. It sounded like a thousand drums beating at once. The water fell from high up the mountain, crashing into a pool that was as clear as glass. The air was full of tiny drops of water that felt cool on Ava’s hot skin. The jungle around them was very green and very thick.Kaelo, the Chief, stood by the edge of the water. He was a giant of a man. His skin was wet, making his huge muscles shine like dark gold. Next to him stood Tane, the Shaman. Tane carried a small wooden bowl. Inside the bowl was a thick, purple paste made from crushed flowers and sweet oils. It smelled like honey and the earth after a rain."The sea salt is harsh," Tane said. His voice was softer than Kaelo’s, but it was still deep. "It makes the skin dry. To be our Goddess, you must be soft. You must be slippery."Kaelo reached out and finished pulling the thin white shirt over Ava’s head. He tossed it onto the moss. Then, he reached for the button of her small shorts. He moved slowly. He wanted
Read More