Spread from PONY WISHES
by Carol Barton
illustrated by Charlotte Alder
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They trudged on, then Maddie tugged at Sebastian’s sleeve. “What is it?” he murmered so that the others wouldn’t hear.
“I’m not sure,” she whispered back, “but I feel as if we are being watched.”
“I know,” he answered out of the side of his mouth, “I feel it too, and not only that — I think we are also being followed.”
“What!” Maddie squeaked and glanced fearfully over her shoulder.
“Shh,” said Sebastian warningly, “let’s not alarm the others.”
“But who do you think it might be?” Maddie’s gaze darted from side to side, but apart from the occasional rustlings in the foliage and the calling of the birds, there was no clue.
“I’ve no idea,” Sebastian admitted, “but don’t worry — it might just be animals.”
Maddie’s head filled with visions of lions and tigers lying in wait.
They carried on deeper into the jungle, and then quite suddenly there was another clearing in front of them. In the centre of the clearing, half covered in vines and foliage, stood the ruins of an old stone building, its walls covered with intricate carvings. In front of the building were pillars joined by elaborate archways.
“Bless my soul!” declared Zak. “Would you look at that!”
“What is it?” Maddie asked.
“It’s an old temple,” replied Tariq. As they all stared in wonder, there was a sudden flurry of movement and a swarm of monkeys rushed forward and began clambering all over the ruined temple.
“Where did they come from?” declared Zak, recoiling in surprise.
“I don’t like them,” said Lyra warily. Some of the monkeys turned. “Oh no, they’ve seen us,” she cried. “They’re coming this way!” The monkeys had indeed paused in their ascent of the temple and were studying the friends with surprised interest. They began to descend the ruins at a rapid pace and to lope towards Maddie and the others, chattering and screeching as they came.
“They’re going to attack us!” cried Lyra. Do something, Sebastian!”
From Pony Wishes. Copyright © 2007 by Carol Barton. All rights reserved.
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