The Hidden Beast Read Free

impressed. So now we have the first verse all figured out. But how far back in the mountains are the Teeth?”
    Watch frowned. “Way back. We could drivepart of the way there, but then we’d have to hike the rest.”
    â€œCan we get there in one day?” Adam asked.
    â€œNo,” Watch said. “If we leave today, we’ll have to camp out at least one night and hike the following day.”
    â€œBut then Venus won’t be at its highest point,” Sally said. “We won’t find what we’re looking for.”
    â€œVenus won’t shift that much in twenty-four hours,” Watch explained. “I think these clues give us a window of opportunity of a few days.” He paused. “But even if we can identify the correct peak, we might look for days for the right shadow. Unless . . .”
    â€œUnless what?” Adam asked when his friend didn’t complete his remark.
    â€œUnless the light or shadow points out another marker,” Watch said. “We can hope for that. But let’s get back to the other verses. They have me stumped. Jewels that speak in dreams. Crystals that whisper words that are more than they seem. Leah, did your father describe the nature of the treasure?”
    â€œNo,” she said cautiously. “Not exactly. He just said it was very ancient.”
    â€œThe last verse speaks of an ancient pet,” Sally said.
    â€œAnd it tells us to beware of her,” Adam said. “Maybe we should listen to what it says. She doesn’t sound very friendly, not from her description here.”
    â€œShe is probably dead,” Sally said. “If the treasure is as old as Leah’s father believed.”
    â€œNot necessarily,” Watch said. “The line, ‘She who remembers old debts,’ implies that she lives for a very long time.”
    Cindy turned to Bryce. “You’re really quiet. What do you think about what Watch said?”
    Bryce nodded in admiration. “I’m stunned. I think he’s figured the whole thing out.”
    â€œBut I’ve only figured out the directions on the map,” Watch said. “Not the other meanings. Have you any idea what this ancient pet could be?”
    â€œNo,” Bryce said. “But like Sally, I believe it was something that lived a long time ago. I’m not worried about it.”
    â€œI can get a truck,” Leah said. “And can drive us.” She smiled suddenly. “This is exciting. If we do find the treasure, I think Watch should get an extra big share.”
    Watch flashed a rare smile. “I wouldn’t mind one of those jewels that speaks in dreams.”
    Leah’s smile shrank. “I’m sure we’ll find something you like.”
    Cindy raised an important point. “I don’t know about you guys, but I’m going to need time to convince my mom to let me go camping tonight. I won’t tell her how far we’re going. She’d worry too much.”
    Adam laughed. “If she only knew how far from home you’ve been other times, she wouldn’t worry about this trip at all.” He was referring, of course, to the times they had been in outer space. He added, “My parents will need to be convinced, too.”
    Sally stood. “My mom and dad like camping, and they’ll be happy I’m spending the night with you guys. Don’t forget to get your equipment together: sleeping bags, backpacks, and plenty of food and water.”
    Watch also stood. “I don’t have to ask anyone where I can go.”
    Adam heard the sadness in his friend’s voice. He knew that Watch’s family was spread all across the country, although he didn’t know why. Watch lived with some relative, but Adam forgot who.
    â€œDoesn’t anybody ever ask what you do?” Adam asked.
    Watch shook his head. “Not usually.”
    Sally patted Watch on the back and smiled.
    â€œBut if you come