Guardians of the Latte Stones by Aleja M.K

Author:Aleja, M.K.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taotao-ta Press LLC
Published: 2024-03-04T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11:

Crossing Enemy Lines

"So what are you saying?" asked the Taicho, "that we must bow and ask permission to enter the jungle?"

"It is what the Chamorro people do, Taicho-san," replied Takeshi.

"That would never work. It would turn us into a laughingstock. These Chamorro are making fools of us. We would be better rid of them, and we will be if they don't serve any use."

"The interpreter told me about the suruhana, Taicho-san. They are healers. They can cure the people, those suffering from attacks."

"That is better news. If we can cure our sick, that is something. Where can we find these suruhana?"

"Some said that we had killed them all. They gather plants from the jungle, perhaps I can find out where? Taicho-san."

The Taicho considered Takeshi's proposal. He sat back and closed his eyes as the days bombardment began in the background.

"Yes, of course, we are running out of time. We will need all the help we can get to make every man fit for battle. You must work fast. What do you need?"

"Just Kindo, the interpreter, and another soldier, Hasegawa Hiroshi, from my barracks. He was the first one to explain the word Taotaomo’na. He understands a little about it."

"See to it. Though a word of warning. The commanders cannot see that I am involved in this matter. I will be careful not to look too hard at what you need to do, but I can only do that for so long. I will have to act if others think you are helping our enemies. I am not known for a merciful reputation."

"I understand, Taicho-san."

"See that you do. As soon as you find one of these suruhana, bring them back here and put them to work. If they can cure the men, you will be a hero. If not, then I cannot save you."

***

Takeshi and Hiroshi stood at the barracks gate. Kindo hurried forward out of the crowds toward them.

“Good morning, Takeshi-san,” Kindo performed a low bow, “I was happy that I could help you today.”

“I asked for you especially. The Taicho wants me to stop the guard from falling ill. He wants the medicine that can cure them.”

Kindo gave a discouraging look. “I will not try to put you off, but look around us. Why would the Chamorro seek to help the Taicho?”

“I’m sure the Taicho does not expect to ask for help,” said Hiroshi.

“That is what I mean, Hasegawa-san,” said Kindo, “The suruhana do not have to help. The cure that you want is not just taking a medicine. They must investigate how you offended the Taotaomo’na. Sometimes they will work on parts of the body.”

“We have to do something,” said Takeshi, “I’m worried about what happens to your people next. If they helped the Taicho—”

“They might help you, Takeshi-san. The talk of you has spread throughout the camp, of how you defended and helped some of the women last night.”

“Don’t I know it,” said Hiroshi, pointing to a swollen eye.

“And you too, Hasegawa-san.”

“There was someone among them, Elena, can you take me to her shelter?”

“I will ask amongst the people.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.