“I do. But my liking him has nothing to do with his ability to survive here. You of all people should know that. Defenses are to slow down attackers. Their losses are what deter them. Can you do what’s necessary?”
“I’d like to think so,” Annie said, after thinking about it.
Murdock stiffened.
“What is it?” Annie asked.
“Some of the new arrivals are at the river.”
Annie went to the wall and stared downriver. “I don’t see anything.”
“Neither can I. But I can see their camp fire, though.”
I should leave, Gundersen thought. Cleaning the fish wasn’t too bad, and learning to make a fire can be helpful. At least I’m further along to being able to live here. But what about the Pirates? His blood ran with excitement at the thought of joining the group. Are you sure they’ll accept you? What h
