Chapter 22I wake to screams across the hearth. An Elder has died in the night. I panic and reach for my father’s forehead, hot and sweaty. Keesha jolts up and puts her hand to her cheek. Arrow snores beside me. I resent his peaceful sleep and wake him.
With the daylight’s first hint, it’s time to leave. Don’t stay. I know better, after the story and those fearful glares. We can’t wait. We need to go. More heads rise from slumber and stare at me.
Arrow sits up and rubs his eyes. With little hesitation, he gets up and gathers supplies, the oars, nets, weapons, and provisions, carrying armfuls out of camp, and tells me he’ll be back for more.
I nudge my father. He startles awake. I take him by the hand and Keesha’s. We follow Arrow out of camp, as behind us the Elders nod at their men. Fou
