CRYBABY CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR: INTO THE JUNGLE

CRYBABY

©Copyright 2024 by Mark Watson

CHAPTER 24: INTO THE JUNGLE

The morning light filtered through the towering sal and teak trees, casting dappled shadows over the narrow trail. The forest buzzed with life: the shrill call of cicadas, the chirping of unseen birds, and the rustling of leaves as monkeys scrambled through the canopy above. The air carried the faint scent of damp earth and decaying foliage.

Ahanna adjusted the straps of her backpack, her machete glinting in the light as she cleared the trail ahead. Behind her, the group moved in a loose line: the rangers in their khaki uniforms, two mahouts perched on the backs of the kumki elephants, and Raj and Rahul bringing up the rear. The kumkis swayed with each step, their chains jangling softly, their ears flapping to ward off the persistent jungle flies.

Rahul’s presence was like a splinter in the group’s cohesion. He moved confidently but warily, his rifle slung over his shoulder, his backpack stuffed with supplies. Ahanna still didn’t fully trust him. He wasn’t here for the elephant or the village; he was here for himself.

“Keep your eyes open,” Ahanna called back, her voice steady but firm. “This terrain’s perfect for ambushes.”