The First Step in Peru

The flight to Peru took off smoothly, the hum of the engines providing a sense of calm. Bucky leaned back in his seat, staring out at the clouds as they ascended into the sky. A feeling of relief washed over him, and he whispered to himself, "Finally, I’m going to untie these mysteries. Everything… it’s all going to end soon."

Richard, sitting next to him, peeked over. “Talking to yourself again? You need a hobby, man.”

Bucky smirked, shaking his head. “No, Richie. I just feel like this trip is the start of something big. And… the end of something I can’t explain.”

Richard shrugged, munching on a snack from the plane’s complimentary tray. “Well, as long as it doesn’t end with us getting eaten by jungle demons, I’m game.”

They laughed and then began planning.

“So,” Bucky said, pulling out a small notepad. “You’re the so-called archaeological expert. Where do we start when we get to Peru?”

Richard paused, clearing his throat dramatically. “Well, my vast knowledge tells me that Peru is a land rich in culture, mystery, and delicious street food. I know all the key places to check out.”

“Great,” Bucky said, nodding. “Lead the way.”

But he didn’t notice Richard slyly typing into his phone. The screen glowed as Richard searched, ‘Top tourist places in Lima, Peru.’

When they arrived in Lima, the vibrant city greeted them with bustling streets, colorful markets, and a lively atmosphere. Richard led the way confidently, pointing to landmarks.

“See, Bucky, that’s the famous Plaza Mayor!” Richard exclaimed, gesturing toward a historic square.

“You’re sure?” Bucky asked, narrowing his eyes.

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

“Of course, man! I’ve been studying this stuff for years,” Richard said, holding his head high.

But Bucky caught a glimpse of Richard glancing at his phone again, scrolling through search results. ‘Best museums in Lima,’ the screen read.

Bucky couldn’t resist. He leaned over and smacked the back of Richard’s head. “You don’t know anything about this city, do you? You’re Googling everything!”

Richard winced, rubbing his head. “Ow! Okay, fine. You caught me. But hey, at least I’m trying!”

They both burst out laughing, their voices mixing with the city’s lively chatter.

After wandering for a while, Richard announced, “Time for some real cultural exploration!” He led Bucky to the renowned Museo Larco, a museum famous for its ancient artifacts.

Inside, Bucky was fascinated by the intricate displays of mythological relics, pottery, and artifacts depicting ancient Peruvian deities. Richard, however, was more interested in snapping selfies.

“Richie,” Bucky said, pointing to a large carved stone tablet. “Look at this—doesn’t it remind you of the symbols from that book?”

Richard tilted his head. “Uh… sure, totally. Very book-like.”

“You have no idea what I’m talking about, do you?” Bucky sighed, shaking his head.

Before Richard could reply, Bucky noticed him sneakily looking at his phone again. This time, he didn’t say anything. Instead, he let Richard continue to act like a tour guide.

As the sun began to set, they grew hungry and found a small, bustling restaurant in the heart of the city. They sat down and ordered, enjoying the local atmosphere.

As their food arrived, Richard froze mid-bite. He stared at the server who placed a plate at a nearby table.

“Hey… I know that guy,” Richard muttered, squinting. “Wait a second… FERNANDO!” he shouted.

The server turned, startled, then broke into a wide grin. “Richie, you useless wasteland of a human! What the hell are you doing here?”

The two burst into laughter as they hugged. Bucky watched with curiosity, raising an eyebrow.

Richard gestured dramatically. “Bucky, meet Fernando—an old friend, fellow archaeology buff, and apparently, a waiter?”

“Hey, it’s my hotel, idiot,” Fernando shot back, smirking. “I own the place.”

Richard clapped his hands. “Oh, so I can eat for free? Perfect.”

Fernando rolled his eyes. “Sure, eat all you want, Richie. But you better tell me what you’re doing in Lima before I regret seeing you.”

Richard leaned back, grinning. “Actually, it’s not about me. It’s about my buddy here.” He gestured to Bucky. “He’s on a mission. Something about a Peruvian clan worshipping a demon god.”

Fernando raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “A demon god, huh? Sounds intense. You sure you should be trusting this idiot on your journey?”

“Not really,” Bucky said dryly, earning a laugh from Fernando.

“Anyway,” Richard continued, “we’re trying to learn more about the clan. You know anything?”

Fernando scratched his chin. “Not much. But give me a minute.” He pulled out his phone, made a call, and returned to the table a few minutes later, looking triumphant.

“Okay, guys,” Fernando said, grinning. “I found something—an address. It’s the author of that book you’re obsessed with. He lives just outside the city.”

Bucky’s eyes lit up. “That’s amazing! Thank you!”

“Hold on,” Fernando said, raising a hand. “You’re not getting rid of me that easily. I’m coming with you. Someone’s gotta make sure Richie doesn’t get us all killed.”

The three of them set out together the next morning, making their way to the outskirts of the city. With Fernando now part of their team, the atmosphere grew livelier.

As they approached the author’s house, they noticed it was a dilapidated structure surrounded by overgrown vegetation. The air felt heavy, and an eerie silence hung over the area.

Fernando cracked a joke to ease the tension. “So… this is where you guys get possessed by ancient spirits, right?”

To be continued...