Kayla sobbed uncontrollably, her trembling voice stammering. “P-Pete, I can do so much for you! I’m useful! Oh, right, the map! I hid something from you before. There’s something else on the map I gave you. When we get back, I’ll show you, okay?”
Gabrielle had arrogantly approached her, claiming kinship, intending to acquire the map. To gain the Carrells’ favor, Kayla had shown her sincerity by handing it over, but she’d kept a secret: a highly discreet compartment concealed in a corner held a gold leaf, thin as a cicada’s wing. Even her father, Dexter, knew nothing of it.
The leaf was exquisitely crafted, its lifelike veins and intricate details showcasing masterful craftsmanship. Kayla didn’t know what it was, but anything hidden within such a contested map had to be extraordinary—perhaps a relic from the legendary kingdom. Its small size had even escaped Dexter’s notice.
Thrilled by her discovery, Kayla hid the leaf, telling no one, not even Pete. Ironically, it now seemed her lifeline.
“Oh?” Pete squinted, amused. “What is it?”
“It’s a gold leaf, as thin as a cicada’s wing, but the veins and patterns are incredibly detailed. I think… it must be valuable!”
Kayla described it fully, desperately hoping to prove her worth. Pete’s subtle reaction confirmed she’d gambled correctly. Their eyes met—hers filled with fear, his unreadable.
After a long pause, Pete gently stroked her face, an intimate gesture that sent a shiver of terror down her spine. “The star disk requires a woman’s blood. But where am I to find another woman?”
“P-Pete, the rainforest is vast! I’ll find someone. If that’s not enough, my mother will help. I’ll bring her!”
The Fullers came to mind; they couldn’t escape the rainforest without help. Myra would be the perfect replacement.
Pete chuckled and nodded. “A great idea, but… I lack the patience. Kayla, I’m afraid you’ll have to make the sacrifice.”
Panic overwhelmed Kayla; she fled. But Pete easily caught her, pushing her into a crevice. A piercing scream echoed through the canyon.
Felicia and Stephan arrived, witnessing the scene. “That’s Kayla! And the other… is the head of the Carrell family?”