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“As we’d expect in any isolated rural society,” Saed “We’re respectful of the traditions that fostered them, but still”

“I’ve heard about giants ever since I was a toddler I don’t even pay any attention to the stories anyion—people are entitled to think what they think,” Vanya said

“But he did say there’s been an increase in unexplained disappearances,” Remi reminded her

“I’ve heard rumors that there are still pockets ofout I find that far iant explanation”

“Militia?”

“Ever since the social upheaval, when the Australians sent in an armed task force to keep the peace, there have been those who have agitated for a change in regiuised occupation of the country in order to control its natural resources While the roups of people who are angry, and some of them are militant There have been clashes”

“Then it actually is risky to go explore the caves?” said Sam

She nodded “Not because of giants But does it ain?”

Remi eyed Sam “She has a point”

“Thanks for taking the time to escort us to see Benji,” Saedy”

“My pleasure Just take care that the saely wild, and, like I said, the crocs aren’t the only predators”

“We’ll bear that in ain”

Heat radiated off the parking lot as they walked to the Nissan, the equatorial sun already brutal in the lateThis time, their drive east on the only paved road was fast and relatively easy until they passed the tiny village of Komunimboko and the road they’d had to quit the prior day It wasn’t waist-deep in water any longer, but it was badly rutted and still mostly mud

Saed along, the car swaying and bouncing like an ale narrowed until it more resembled a tunnel than a road The canopy overhead blockedthe ainst the sides of the SUV as it rocked inland

“And we don’t even know if this Rubo is still alive or living here?” Remi asked