Piper Hiking

	They tromped up a hill and down into a heavily wooded valley, careful to avoid the black-and-redstriped snakes sunning themselves on the rocks. Mosquitoes swarmed over stagnant ponds in the lowest areas. The trees were mostly stunted olives, cypress, and pines. The chirring of the cicadas and the oppressive heat reminded Piper of the rez in Oklahoma during the summer.
…
	They trudged across a ridge between two hills, trying to stay in the shade; but Piper was already soaked with perspiration. The mosquitoes left welts on her ankles, arms, and neck, so she probably looked like a smallpox victim.
...
	Piper shuddered. She didn’t know what time it was, but the sun was already starting to sink. How had the day passed so quickly?