4
Later that day, the chief returned to the hut, and he and Teuila had a calmer discussion. His countenance seemed to have changed completely toward both of us, and he nodded as he made eye contact with me before leaving to attend to other business. Not long after, the old lady entered the cabin carrying a platter of food and some fresh water. She spoke with Teuila briefly, then she kneeled down beside me and felt my forehead, encouraging me to drink the cool water. I was beginning to feel stronger, and I was able to sit up as the two women tended to me.
"Your father seems less angry," I said. "Should I thank your grandmother for that?"
"Probably," Teuila nodded. "When she explained the circumstances of your arrival and reminded him of our longstanding tradition of giving refuge t
