The Thanza Valley kept its beauty for many years, attracting tourists. Its snow-capped mountains remained tall, protecting against the elements. Despite this, pollution dulled the valley’s natural beauty.
While the local government reduced emissions, the region needed time to heal. Still, the town continued its daily activities.
Staying in the shadows, Carrie and Jago snuck through the village. During their alms rounds trip, they discovered Gargos’ cult and learned of their intentions. They planned to return to the Tiger Shrine, but with the sect guarding the paths, they had only one choice.
After traversing the village without detection, they found a yak-drawn cart belonging to a wandering merchant.
The man visited a food stall to replenish supplies. The yak chewed its cud, swiping its horselike tail against its shaggy coat.
“We need to time this right, or we’ll be stuck here with those cultists,” Jago said.
“Couldn’t we ask the villagers for help?” Carrie said. “Or that merchant?”
“We can’t depend on them. One could expose us if those fanatics bent them under pressure.” The monk thought about the poor stall owner who had lost his life. “Stay put while I check the cart.”
“What if there isn’t enough room?”
“We’ll figure something out. One thing is certain: we must leave this village.”
After checking the scenery, Jago crept toward the wagon. During this process, the trader and market owner haggle. Before he raised the cover, the yak grunted, freezing him. The sturdy animal shook its head, minding its own business.
With a quiet sigh, he pulled it back. Thank Buddha. There’s enough space.
After lowering himself, the monk glanced back at Carrie, who prayed in her hiding spot. He threw a few pebbles to grab her attention. Once he motioned for her to come, she shuffled toward him. “Okay, you go ahead. I’ll follow you.”
Staying quiet, Carrie climbed on, slipping through the covering. After passing the alms bowl to her, Jago followed. Both lay on their stomachs, with several jars and various products near their feet.
“What now?” Carrie asked.
“Now, we wait. I hope the seller doesn’t find us.”
“Well, well,” a voice called. “What’s a merchant doing here?”
They studied the silhouettes, sensing the tension in the air. Suspicious, the merchant spoke his native tongue.
“He’s curious about our business with him,” another person said.
While listening, Jago squinted. The discussion eluded him, but it mentioned a ritual for their master, albeit subtle. The sheet lifted and grew from the far end. Silent breaths escaped him while his stomach tightened.
Carrie turned where the monk stared and almost screamed. Jago covered her mouth, motioning to stay quiet. While breathing through her nose, Carrie prayed to God for protection. The old tarp pulled back further, stopping before them. Each pair of hands picked up many jars before the cover blocked the light.
With slumped shoulders, Jago removed his hand from Carrie’s mouth. The latter glanced up, thanking God.
The shadowy figures walked away but paused mid-way.
“Have you seen a girl and a monk?” the stranger asked. A second person translated the words into Nepali.
The trader furrowed his brows and spoke.
YOU ARE READING
Killer Instinct: Carrie Unleashed
Fanfiction"Carrie had an ability, but she was a person, not a monster. She had hopes and fears, and we pushed her. You can only push a person so far before they break." A dark veil fell over Chamberlain, Maine, after tragedy struck the quiet town at the hands...
