Trail of Lightning

Rissa explains that the monsters reported in Rock Springs sound like zombies since they were trying to eat human brains. Maggie immediately realizes that they must be tsé naayéé’. Everyone, including Kai and the Goodacres, looks to Maggie to lead them into battle at Rock Springs. Maggie does not consider herself a leader and worries that she will fail them just as she did Tah. However, she also thinks, “Someone has to do something, and it looks like it’s going to be me” (176). Despite her reluctance to take responsibility, Maggie does step up to the challenge. The group then plans their attack, readies for battle, and heads off to Rock Springs.

The group rides to Rock Springs, which is silent upon their arrival. The air smells of witchcraft. Kai says that the people of Rock Springs must be hiding in nearby smuggling tunnels. Rissa suggests that they leave and return during the day, but suddenly a tsé naayéé’ attacks her, slashing open her stomach. Clive shoots other approaching monsters while Kai takes care of Rissa. Maggie reminds Clive to fight off the monsters with his flamethrower while she beheads the others. After they kill the monsters, Kai says that they need to bring Rissa home.