Storm of Locusts (The Sixth World, #2)

by Rebecca Roanhorse

“I . . . I made the deal to help Gideon with his work so Caleb could go home, and Gideon promised. I would have never, Maggie. If I’d known, I would have never.” “I know.” At least I think I know. I know the old Kai would have never, so I have to believe this Kai wouldn’t either. “Is he . . . ?” “He was with Clive, headed back to Tah when I last saw him.” Kai stiffens. A shudder rocks his body, and he bends at the waist, head between his knees like he’s going to be sick. His cigarette drops forgotten from shaking fingers. “Are you okay?” I ask, alarmed, reaching for him out of instinct. His back trembles under my hand. “Kai? Kai! What’s wrong?” “What did you say?” he asks, voice thick. “About my cheii?” He doesn’t know. Of course he doesn’t know. “He’s alive. Tah is alive.”