THE WINDOW

~ SHE ALWAYS HAD THAT ABOUT HER, THAT LOOK OF OTHERNESS, OF EYES THAT SEE THINGS MUCH TOO FAR, AND OF THOUGHTS THAT WANDER OFF THE EDGE OF THE WORLD. ~

- Joanne Harris

World-renowned explorer, Mark Rimor was leading an expedition into the Amazon. Tasked with capturing new footage for a documentary on remote tribes, he and his film crew had teamed up with a local guide at the Port of Manaus.

After many days of travel, they were deep in the formidable rainforest, when their guide, Ayuro, came to an abrupt stop.

“What’s wrong?” asked Mark.  

“We must be careful,” replied Ayuro, indicating some markings on a tree, “We are in the territory of the Udani tribe. They are not friendly to outsiders.”  

No sooner had he finished speaking when a warning arrow whizzed mere millimetres by Mark’s head. In a heartbeat, fierce-looking warriors brandishing poison-tipped spears surrounded them.  

“Don’t move,” gushed Ayuro before hurriedly addressing the armed men in a local dialect.  

Mark carefully studied their captors, taking in their bold, painted faces, and feathered adornments. Until with a sharp intake of breath, he saw a pair of ice-blue eyes, glaring back at him.  

Those eyes were like nothing he had ever seen before. They seemed capable of casting a spell with a single glance. Forgetting himself, Mark took a step in their direction.  

Next thing he knew, something hit him hard. And he fell, unconscious to the ground.

When Mark opened his eyes, he could feel the pain in his head and a ringing in his ears.  

“Good, you are awake,” exclaimed Ayuro, rushing to his side. As his eyes adjusted, Mark could see they were inside some kind of hut.  

It didn’t take long for Ayuro to fill him in on what had happened. Despite Mark’s misstep, Ayuro had managed to appease the tribe, explaining what the expedition team were trying to do.  

The Chief had been understanding and offered them hospitality. However, they were forbidden from filming or sharing details of the Udanians with the outside world.   

That night the explorers were celebrated, with a bountiful feast and traditional dances. One performer caught Mark’s attention more than any of the others. Her spirited moves were second only to her unforgettable ice blue eyes.  

So pure, deep and intense. You could get lost in them. And when they looked at you, it felt like they were staring into your very soul. Seeing things beyond the mortal realm. Finding every magical thread that wove around all beings.  

No, Mark would never forget those transfixing eyes. They were windows to divinity.