Chapter 23
When Ben found the courage to open his eyes, he was staring straight up into a bright, blue sky. Lying flat on his back, he tried moving his arm: apart from a slight numbness, he seemed to be fine. His fist was still clenched around the ruby on its gold chain. He hung it around his neck and tucked it under his t-shirt. He was strong enough to sit up, but felt dizzy. He looked around for Maya. She was lying on the ground a few metres way in a slightly twisted shape, her hair forming a brown halo around her head. He wanted to call out, but no sound came from his throat. He tried staggering over to her but collapsed after a few steps.
“Maya! No! You can’t be hurt...”
The girl stirred, raised her hand and rubbed her eyes, then looked around groggily.
“I’m fine. Where are we?”
I
