Without a Trace--Chapter Nine

Well finally! We've been waiting all this time for the kidnapping, and now it's happening. Just as I thought, Burmese superstition and myth set the tourists up for trouble. When the natives see Rupert doing his magic tricks, they think he is their long-lost leader now returned to them as legend has foretold. I am amazed at how quickly they put a plan together to take him to their village.

I was expecting that the whole group was taken, but after a night of slapstick comedy in his romance with Marlena, Harry is left behind in the morning while the others head off to a sunrise cruise. Will he be able to help in rescuing them?

After the group has a lovely experience on the boat ride, Black Spot persuades them to go on without Walter. It's never a good idea to separate from your tour guide. There will be consequences.

The tourists do have some doubts. They are surprised to see Grease whom they remember from the day before, and astonished when they discover that Black Spot speaks English. But they are excited about the day's activities, so they follow without question. They know that Bibi wouldn't put them in danger, and they think that Walter must have gone on ahead to set up the "Christmas surprise." Not to worry, it's going to be a great adventure.

Don't you think they might have wondered at the hiding of the boats or at the whispered conferences of the drivers? And where is Walter? I think these guys are headed for trouble...