She rolled away from the wall and peered into the darkness. “Tepil?” she whispered, “what are you doing?” “Shh, go back to sleep sister. I am going to the lagoon to fish. This is the best time- the dawn is a while off and the fish are drowsy.” Yau pushed herself up and lit a tapered candle. Soft, orange light pooled around her, accentuating the shadows. “Is that wise?” she asked as she watched her brother kneel at their altar and make his sacrifice. “It is already the season for sea maidens- they will be violent during their laying.” “Do not worry little sister. I am not so foolish to go alone or leave the shore. Amoxtl joins me.” “I don’t like it,” Yau said. “The gods are capricious, and you take too many risks.” He crouched down in front of her and ruffled her hair as he smiled. “You worry too much, little mother hen. Life is worth the risk, and the fish are at their best this time of year.” He kissed the top of her head. “I will be safe. I swear it to you.”
