May as well go the whole hog. But first, food! Lead on, my dear." That last slipped out, but Lida had turned away so I didn't see her face. Did she no...ice? Did she react? Object? I didn't know, and I resolved to watch my mouth in future.The meal was wonderful. Yes, it was well prepared and presented, but what made it just perfect was company. Congenial company. Make that, attractive, intelligent, articulate, congenial company. Not for the first time I regretted that I was twenty years older. Manuel had overheard the interns talking and knew they were excited about a find at Machu Picchu. They were talking about something called a map to the 'path of the gods' and Manuel wanted to be there when they found this path. He had two reasons for needing to be close by.Many a native helper had found fame and fortune by simply being part of the party when a major archeological find was made. Yes, Manuel would guard the professors equipment and his back. This could be the key to his and his. She’s not much more than a piece of meat with a few holes to me but I’m sure she means the world to you, am I right?”There’s fire behind his eyes as he spits his reply.“Fuck you! You fucking know she’s does you twisted fuck!”I can’t help but laugh. Does he really think that him getting angry will help the situation?“Wrong answer bud.” I meet his eyes before turning to my partner. “Bend the bitch over!”.....................Maize:There’s a boot pressing on my left cheek, keeping the right one. “Impossible.”Yet the sounds of psychic bells and resistance of willpower beyond that ever seen before, defies any and all of his best efforts. Both by blunt force of will, defiance of rage and the subtlest moves of a mouse seeking to wind its way in are all rebuffed.Except for in one very small location; a hole in a defense that cannot afford to be less than flawless.Smiling once again at the indomitable and superior building he is, the prizes inside await.Quick as only the energy of thought.