Chapter 68

Reluctantly, Airk said, “That belongs to Gideon.”

With a slight frown, she handed the branch to the guide.

“Ah, mine!” He motioned for more and Airk obliged, picking branches from different trees in a variety of colors. When Gideon had an armful, he bowed and, without another word, left.

As they watched him cross the Bridge of Death, the bright branches dragging at his heels, Kitt asked, “What’s he going to do with them?”

“I don’t have the slightest idea,” Airk replied. “Whenever I employ him to help me cross the marsh, he wants to be paid in aireas leaves. He’s too short to pick them himself, and the trunks are too smooth to climb.”

“Why doesn’t he lead us through the mountains?” Estelle asked.

“He’s never been there,” the outlaw answered. “The only reason he comes this far is for the trees. It’s said whoever breathes too much of their fragrance goes insane. In his case…”