The Feathers of Fire [1st DRAFT]

10. The Deal

I winced when the fire light met my eyes. It was enclosed by small rocks and a small hill of sand to ensure that it wouldn't spread. The night was dark and cool, the stars abnormally visible. Beanstalk and Slug sat next to it on old rusting lawn chairs. When they saw me follow Cricket out they stood up, both looking ready to ask questions. I didn't have the energy to stop them from doing anything.

Luckily I didn't have to. The stranger, Aaron, held up his hand firmly and sat down on his own chair with a long sigh. There was one chair left. Under normal circumstances I would wrestle the nearest person for that spot, but out of common courtesy I glanced at Cricket and tried to ask him if he wanted to sit there with my eyes. He gestured to the seat with a concerned look and sat on the ground, drawing pictures in the sand. I collapsed into it, relishing the pressure it took off of my sore joints and back.

The fire flickered and danced around my vision. I had never wanted to sleep so badly in my life. Aaron picked up a metal poker and stoked the fire, sending a flurry of glowing sparks into the sky.

"Who are you?" I asked him again, my voice weak and raspy. "I already answered that one," he said, not even looking in my direction. "I have some questions for you," I croaked, trying to sound intimidating. I hated being so vulnerable. He set the poker gently on the ground, continuing to stare into the fire. "I don't really think you're in a great position to be asking questions." His voice was very deep and droning, only adding to my sleepiness.

"However, I'll be willing to exchange information with you. But first, have some stew."

He poured a bowl of the steaming liquid and passed it to me and the boys. For five minutes we all ate ravenously. It burned my mouth, but I couldn't wait.

It wasn't until I reemerged from my bowl that I realized Benito was sitting some fifteen feet away, calmly. I couldn't believe he'd calmed down so quickly. It made me wonder how much time had passed since the fight. "How long was I out?" I asked.

"Something like ten minutes," Beanstalk said quietly. "Ten minutes?" I asked skeptically. I glanced at Benito again. "He'd still be panicking if only ten minutes had passed."

"I calmed him down," Cricket piped in. "I get along well with animals." I fought with the urge to give a quick "thank you", before deciding to ignore him. "You," I said pointing at Aaron. "What are you doing here? And why did you help us?"

"Slow down muchacha, I'll answer your question if you answer mine."

"Deal."

He sighed. "I was resting in this city for a couple of days. I'm from Morelia, but recently took up the job of transporting supplies to different cities. I was on my way to the next city on the list when my wagon broke. This was the nearest place. As for your rescue, I have my own quarrels with the Vultures. The way you were being dragged along and thrown around told me enough about your position." I was still put off about how open he was about sharing his business. "Your turn hermana," he said. "What's your name chica?"

This was especially strange. He just gave his exact reason for being where he was, why he interfered with other people's problems, and his hometown. All he asked in return was my name.

"Lucia Morales," I answered confidently. Aaron looked down in disappointment. "Come now, be honest with me. I know that's not your name. Philippe over there called you Carmen." I froze. I wanted to scream with frustration. The stupid kid had given away my identity. I forced myself to cool it. It wasn't his fault, he was young and naive. I was sure he didn't mean any harm by forgetting to call me by my fake name, especially in front of someone who seemed to have the purest of intentions.