“Tell me again why this ceremony will help. I mean, wouldn’t it be better for me to keep moving, rather than wait for the trackers to find me here?”

“Even if the trackers do try to find you in this village, we have very effective ways of hiding you,” said Maria. There was a note of impatience in her expression, as this must have been at least the fourth time she had said this to Kaz. “Orlando says that the ceremony will help you understand what you must do next. It will not only keep you safe, it will guide your steps when you leave here.”

“Yes, but how does it work?” Maria hardly paused as her practiced hands continued their mending of Kaz’s ragged pack.

“Well,” she said. “You and Owen will go inside. He will place the rocks in the hole in the center and then come inside, closing the door flap behind him. The skins over the willow framework trap the heat. He’ll add water to the rocks, creating steam. And then he will chant and sing, calling the elements to be present and guide you.”

“Just like that?”

“Just like that.”

“But what if they won’t come?”

Maria seemed to find this notion amusing, for she smiled and looked up from her mending. “You really don’t have much experience with shamanism, do you?” she asked.

Kaz shook her head.

“Well, when a Shaman calls the elements, they come. It’s as simple as that. You and Owen should feel them and be able to communicate with them as well, but even if you have trouble connecting, Orlando will be able to speak with them on your behalf. One way or another, you will get answers.”

Kaz considered this. “What if it hurts?” she asked, trying not to let her fear show.

Maria reached over with the hand not holding the needle and grasped Kaz’s shoulder. “I can tell you’ve had a rough road with the elements, dear. But it’s usually not like that for most people. And Orlando has always had a strong relationship with them. Even if things get intense, he will take care of you. I promise.”

Kaz looked into Maria’s wide, brown eyes and believed her. She felt the worst sting of her fear ease somewhat.

“Mama!” The door flapped open and Jess burst into the room. She was flushed and panting, as if she had been running.

“What is it, mija?” asked Maria.

“The trackers have made it to the village,” said Jess. “They say they’re going to go house to house looking for Kaz.”

“Can they do that?” asked Maria.

“They just knocked out Joaquin. I think they can do whatever they want.”

Maria set down the needle and stood. She picked up the pack and shoved it under the pile of cushions by the table.

“Who’s Joaquin?” asked Kaz.

“The town’s leader,” said Maria grimly. “It sounds like he was trying to stop them. Come with me, Kaz. We’ll get you hidden.”

Next Chapter: 10: Owen - Questions