THE LIVING DEAD GIRL [4]

He was just about to deliver the first blow when two shots rang out.

Koritoia-Ope was hurled forward across thegirl's body, ragged bullet holes opening in his back and gushing blood.

The rock dropped from his hand and rolledharmlessly away into the darkness. For a few seconds there was silence.

Then Sam groaned and sat up, rubbing his head.

A little dazed, he looked at the dead witch doctor sprawledacross the terrified girl's body.'Oh, good work,' he muttered.

'I had no choice,' said Purna tightly.

'You OK?' he asked Yerema.The girl gave a single jerky nod.

Sam grabbed Koritoia-Ope's arm and hauled him off Yerema's body, then helped her to sit up. Turning his headto look at Purna he said, 'Let's just get that sample and get the hell out of here.'