“Just say the word,” Ranger answered.
Hastiin Sani brought out four leather pouches, fastened at the top with drawstrings. “These bundles contain medicine from Bears’ Ears,” he said, referring to a well-known rock formation associated with power and protection. “They’ll help protect you against lies, and treachery.” He came around the fire to join Ranger, who’d stood to accept the bundle.
“Wind, you bear the name of the guardian of The People. Stay alert. Your beliefs in everything-including yourself-will be challenged.”
Ranger nodded somberly. Evil was in the air. He’d sensed that himself at dawn this morning when he’d stood on top of the mesa and listened to the Wind People. Wind carried messages to those who had ears to hear. Wind had warned Youngest Brother of the approach of danger. It would do the same for him.
Once the medicine man left the antechamber, the four remaining warriors nodded to each other then, one by one, left the cave of secrets. No words were exchanged between them. What more was there to say?
Before Ranger could begin the climb down, his brother signaled him. Ranger followed Hunter into one of the smaller caverns.
“I envy you,” Hunter said once they were alone. “I miss being out in the field in the middle of the action. Want to flip for this assignment?” Hunter added with a quick half grin, reaching into his pocket.
Before his fingertips touched the coin, Ranger swept his outside leg into Hunter’s inside knees, then with a quick hook of the neck, flipped his brother onto the ground. “Tails, I win. Marriage’s making you soft,” he said with a grin.